Ergonomic knob insert for hollow stick

ABSTRACT

Described is a knob insert for application to the gripping end of a hockey stick. The knob insert comprises a rounded, oblique, cylindrical support structure, transitional shaft and tang aligned on a common longitudinal central axis. The support structure comprises a greater diameter rounded, cantle-like support and gripping structures.

Hockey sticks, those with a generally rectangular handle, grasped in thehand(s) and swung with a greater arm motion, date back hundreds ofyears. The hockey stick design has evolved over the past 25 years and ispredominantly hollow in cross section along the length of the handle andshaft.

Some forms of stick and ball games date back to 12th century in Irelandand are the precursor to modern game of Hurling. In the 13th century, inScotland, they started swinging an implement or stick with a contactstructure to strike a ball to drive it to a target—the earliest form ofgolf. For the first time in human history the swing of an implement nolonger ended at the point of contact, but rather, the implement had tobe swung through the point of contact. To achieve this, the path of theimplement must rotate roughly around the central axis the body of theperson performing the swing. Specifically after swinging, through thetargeted object, the implement must continue around the body and mostimportantly, the hands must pass over the central longitudinal axis ofthe implement to allow the implement to continue its rotational patharound the body.

This recent swing motion allows the collective energy, generated by theswing, to be imparted with accuracy, speed and power through thetargeted object, i.e., a puck or ball, and allow the momentum generatedbefore contact to decrease in speed and force after contact—thus wasborn the “rotational-swing.” A rotational-swing can be observed insports like, golf, cricket, baseball, softball, hockey and others. Whenperformed with the greater collaboration of the shoulders, body andlegs, the rotational-swing creates a whole new set of coordinatedmotions, steps, grips and swinging implements that continue to evolve inall sports today. The greater rotational and linear swings and relatedpaths discussed here are not to be confused with rotational and linear“swing techniques” taught in some sports.

When an athlete grasps a sports implement with the hands, it is referredto as “the power grip”—with the handle or grip being fully or mostlywrapped with the fingers & palm and opposed by the thumb. During arotational-swing path, immediately after the intended point of contact,the hand(s) is forced through a rapid ulnar flexion or bending of thewrist to the pinky side of the hand to navigate over the centrallongitudinal axis of the implement to complete the swing—for thisanalysis, this moment is referred to as the “transitional phase” of arotational swing path. As with all rotational swings, compression andfriction forces peak in the area of the hypothenar as the hand(s) passover the central axis of the swinging implement. This is a current andcommon problem as evidence of these forces is seen in the wear and tearthat occurs in the palmer area of the hand, specifically the area of thehypothenar, of gloves worn by athletes in golf, baseball, hockey andothers.

Hockey players, in many instances, grip a hockey stick such that thebutt-end of the stick, opposite the blade, is placed inside the palm ofthe hand rather than allowing the end of the stick to protrude from thebase of the hand. This allows the player to bend their wrist towardtheir pinky thus allowing the stick to be extended generally parallel inthe direction of the forearm. In this position, the player is able toreach out and fully extend his/her stick from the body to cover morearea on the ice. However, because the palm of the hand, aka hypothenareminence, is not engaging the stick, the player is losing leverage andcontrol of the stick.

With a rotational swing, centrifugal forces pull the swinging implementaway from the athlete and the athlete imparts centripetal force to theimplement through the hand(s) to maintain grip and a rotation arch ofthe swing around the body. To prevent the sporting implement fromslipping from that hand(s) during the rotational swing, many sportingimplements have evolved to incorporate grip-stops or “knobs” of variousshapes and sizes—baseball bats have rounded knobs, perpendicularlyoriented to the central longitudinal axis of the stick, at the end ofthe handle; golf club handle grips gently flare out at the end, hockeysticks commonly have various player adapted knobs made of tape, wrappedon the end of the hockey stick. Knobs incorporated in all sportsswinging implements typically have the entirety of the knob beingperpendicular in orientation to the center axis of the sports swingingimplement. A perpendicularly-oriented knob, creates, in effect, a speedbump for the base gripping hand to overcome at the transitional phase ofthe swing.

To-date, some have endeavored to improve grip on hockey sticks and othersports sticks by creating handles and grips that deviate from alignmentwith the longitudinal central axis of the sports stick being swung. Thisapproach, however, is counter-intuitive to the human experience ofhaving the hands grip a swinging implement along a common centrallongitudinal axis of a stick. The key to accuracy and power in arotational swing using a “power grip” is proper hand alignment with thecentral longitudinal axis of the swinging implement.

When athletes initially grasp a hockey stick with their hand at the endof a hockey stick, they use a modified power grip wherein the blunt endof the hockey stick is placed into the palmer area of the hand ratherthan allowing the end of the stick protrude from the gripping hand. Thisallows the hand to have a slightly angled orientation to the centralaxis of the stick. But, during the course of play in using the hockeystick to handle and pass the puck, the hand repeatedly crosses, back andforth, over the central longitudinal axis of the hockey stick. The handundergoes rapid ulnar flexion resulting in the conventional hockey stickhandle forcefully compressing into the hypothenar area of the hand asevidenced by the ubiquitous wear and tear in the palm of all base handgripping hockey gloves over time. Three problems result from thatcompression:

-   -   1. A “speed-bump” effect wherein the hand is un-naturally forced        over the central axis of the stick thus negatively impacting and        slowing down the natural stick handling, thus reducing accuracy,        power and hand speed.    -   2. Focused compression to the hypothenar of the base gripping        hand, under which the ulnar nerve travels, thus destabilizing        the grip.    -   3. Excessive wear and tear in the hands and gloves resulting in        contusions, wrist strain and nerve damage all of which occur in        the areas in and surrounding the hypothenar and premature        wearing out of the players gloves.

Of particular note, hockey players typically wear out their gloves inthe palm (specifically the area of the hypothenar) area of their glove.This wear is the result of constant and considerable friction,compression and torque being applied through the glove by the hand tothe stick and the knob of tape as the hand passes back and forth acrossthe central axis of the stick. Gloves are an expensive piece of a hockeyplayer's equipment and the ability to preserve the life of the playersgloves over the course of the season is important.

In evolutionary terms, the swinging implements used in sports, whichrequire a rotational-swing, are roughly 700 years old—they're still intheir formative years compared to their linear-swing-path cousins, forexample swords, axes and hammers. As for the hockey stick, it's modernroots date back only to the late 1800s when hockey was first played inCanada—as such it is in its infancy in terms of it's evolution.

Hockey sticks are composed of a straight, mostly rectangular incross-section, shaft having a longitudinal central axis from thenon-blade end of the stick to the point of attachment where the blade isaffixed. A complete hockey stick features a wide flattened blade affixedat its end, which is used to control (handle, pass, maneuver andcontact) the puck. Hockey sticks are constructed of variousmaterials—wood, aluminum, plastic, fiber glass, composites, syntheticresins and most recently with carbon fiber materials resulting in verylight and strong sticks with a hollow shaft.

To improve overall grip on the stick, players apply various kinds andmethods of tapes and taping along the length of the handle end of thestick and stick manufacturers produce hockey sticks having shafts withvarying levels of adhesive characteristics to help improve grip. Morerecently, sticks have been manufactured with a “tacky” surface coveringto enhance grip. A common practice among players taping their stickhandle, is to create a “knob” on the end of the stick using multiplelayers of tape. The knob is typically aligned perpendicular to thecentral longitudinal axis of the handle. This practice has been in usefor decades and varies with the personal preference of each player. This“knob of tape” aids players in keeping the stick in their hand duringplay and makes the stick easy to pick up off the ice if dropped. Thepresent embodiment described herein does not prevent players from tapingthe gripping portion of the stick per their preference.

The evolution of the hockey stick has resulted in the predominance ofcomposite sticks made with resins and weaved fibers like fiberglass andcarbon used in play. This type of structure has become the preferredstandard stick design at virtually all levels of hockey. Now, with ahollow opening at the end of the stick, which is typically covered witha plastic or rubber plug, the hockey stick is capable of accepting anextension to lengthen the stick for greater leverage or, as per the knobinsert described herein, an ergonomic knob insert to improve grip,control, precision, performance and power-transfer from the hands to thestick.

In some instances a rubber sleeve, which replicates the taping of thestick handle, is slipped over the end of the hockey stick rather thantaping the stick. This provides similar benefits to taping the handlebut does not provide any additional benefit or support and may wellcreate unwanted compression, resistance and added excess weight inhandling the stick.

The predominantly rectangular shape of the hockey stick is not conduciveto engaging the subtle shapes of the carpal arches of the gripping handor the changes that occur in the relationship between the hand and thestick during the course of play where a rotational swing motion isconstantly evident. Solutions that attempt to address the gripping of ahockey stick which have been employed, include complete handles or gripsfor the whole hand to grasp, which in essence provide a wholly separatestructure from the stick with which to grasp the end of stick.Additionally, these full grips dramatically increase the weight of thehockey stick. There are limited options for players to improve grip oftheir hockey stick—wrapping with tape, creating ridges of tape down thelength of the handle or wrapped rotationally around the handle and fulladd-on handles. However, no current solution provides an ergonomic knob,created to work with the range of motion of the human hand, which actsas a smooth extension of the stick. A solution, which providesstructures that support and engage the hand (hypothenar and the pinkyfinger, ring finger and portion of the middle finger of the hand) andthat adapts to the changes that occur between the hand and the stickduring play as outlined earlier. Additionally, there is no knob insertfor a hockey stick that specifically supports the hypothenar grippingstructures of the hand allowing for greater leverage and control of thehockey stick. Therefore there is an unmet need for an effective, simple,light-weight, longitudinally aligned knob to enable hockey players tohave a more natural and ergonomically correct grip and thus achieve ahigher level of performance with their hockey stick through the use ofthe knob insert described herein.

In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a knob insert forattachment to a hockey stick having a hollow longitudinal shaft. Theknob insert comprises two discrete components comprising a shaft and asheath that combine to form the knob portion (for grasping the knobinsert) and a tang (for insertion into the hollow shaft of a hockeystick). The shaft provides the underlying structure for the sheath,which is grasped by the hypothenar, palmer arches, pinky finger, ringfinger and portion of the middle finger of the hand.

In another aspect, the present disclosure discloses a knob insert forattachment to the end of a hollow shaft of a hockey stick, having ananterior cantle region and a posterior cantle region, sized and disposedon opposite sides of the shaft and sheath, which support and engage thehypothenar and the pinky finger, ring finger and portion of the middlefinger of the hand.

In another aspect, the present disclosure discloses a knob insert forattachment to the end of a hollow shaft of a hockey stick, whichcomprises a cavity sized to fit a sensor.

Among the various aspects of the knob insert for full insertion in thehollow end of a hockey stick, that comprises at least one of thefollowing attributes:

-   -   (i) provides a structure and/or surfaces that cradle and support        the greater area of the hypothenar of the hand;    -   (ii) distributes compressive forces on the hand across the        greater area of the angled cantle-like waist to a broader area        of the hand rather than focused force on the hypothenar and        underlying hamate bone and ulnar nerve;    -   (iii) provides improved contoured gripping structures for the        pinky and ring fingers resulting in improved overall grip        stability throughout a rotational swing;    -   (iv) provides increased effective surface area contact between        the knob insert and the hand across the various palmar arches of        the hand resulting in greater control and precision, and        providing improved transfer of power from the hands to the        stick;    -   (v) provides an angled, cantle-like waist to properly align with        natural limited range of motion of the hand during ulnar        flexion. Advantageously, therefore, the knob presented herein        provides support, grip and performance;    -   (vi) provides a tang sized for close insertion into the hollow        end of a hockey stick, having a length along its longitude such        that is provides a secure connection between the knob insert and        the hockey stick;    -   (vii) provides a tang, with a longitudinal length roughly half        the length of the overall knob insert. When fully inserted into        the hollow end of a hockey stick, while keeping the plurality of        the knob insert within the grip of the hand, the knob insert        will generally not impacting the flex of the stick as an insert        having a greater longitudinal length would;    -   (viii) provides a sheath portion that is grasped by the pinky        finger, ring finger and portion of the middle finger. When fully        inserted into the hockey stick, the knob insert allows the pinky        finger, ring finger and portion of the middle finger of the hand        to grasp, in concert, both the sheath portion of the knob insert        and the end portion of the hockey stick thus maintaining the        players “feel” for the stick;    -   (ix) provides a sheath portion having an external surface        featuring a similar coefficient of friction as the external        surface of the hockey stick to which the knob insert is affixed;    -   (x) provides a tang structure, injection molded of thermoplastic        polymeric and a fiber reinforcing material, for maximum material        strength to prevent breakage along the length of the knob insert        and in particular at the step;    -   (xi) provides a tang structure with chamfered longitudinal        corners allowing for insertion into various brands of hockey        sticks, whose internal corner radii dimensions vary;    -   (xii) provides a complete knob insert which generally fits,        longitudinally within the length of the athletes hand from base        of the palm to middle fingertip thus allowing for a        proportionally balanced knob insert, which when fully inserted        into a hollow hockey stick, provides support to the base        gripping structures of the hand (hypothenar, pinky finger, ring        finger and a portion of the middle finger) while at the same        time providing the forward gripping structures of the hand        (portion of the middle finger, first finger and thumb) to        directly grasp the handle portion of the hockey stick shaft from        the step of the knob insert, butted up to the hollow end of the        hockey stick, forward in the direction of the blade;    -   (xiii) provides a knob insert wherein the ratio of the        longitudinal length of the tang to the longitudinal length of        the knob 1.17 is generally 1:1. Another way of stating this is        the length of the tang 1.3, along the central longitudinal        length of the knob insert 1, is roughly ½ the total longitudinal        length of the knob insert 1. Yet another way of stating this is        the sheath is generally half the longitudinal length of the knob        insert.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, the knob insert features ashaft, which comprises a tang and a knob, which is coupled to thesheath. In various embodiments, therefore, the knob insert may be formedby a process comprising any of the following steps:

-   -   (i) Injection molding is the preferred method of creating the        knob insert described herein. The knob insert is comprised of        two structures—a shaft and a sheath. The two structures, the        shaft and sheath are sequentially manufactured such that the        shaft is molded first to provide the main structure of the knob        insert and the sheath is coupled, covering the non-tang of the        shaft thus providing the knob, which is grasped by the athlete.    -   (ii) The shaft is manufactured using a combination of materials        rendering a durable, strong and light-weight shaft structure.        The sheath is coupled to the non-tang portion of the shaft using        a combination of materials rendering a structure having a        durometer and a coefficient of friction properties.    -   (iii) The coupling of the sheath and the shaft creates the knob.        Using a thermoplastic elastomer having a durometer and        coefficient of friction which enables the athlete to grasp the        knob insert such that the durometer and friction of the grip are        generally consistent with the durometer and friction of the        hockey stick to which the knob insert described herein is fully        inserted.    -   (iv) The shaft, after manufacturing, must withstand break forces        greater than a range of 15 to 25 pounds, when fully inserted        into a hollow hockey stick and having the knob insert clamped        just below the step, and lateral force applied to the stick at        28″ up the length of the hockey stick from the step. By further        example, the shaft, after manufacturing, must withstand break        forces greater than a range of 25 to 35 pounds when fully        inserted into a hollow hockey stick and having the knob insert        clamped just below the step, and lateral force applied to the        stick at 28″ up the length of the hockey stick from the step. By        further example, the shaft, after manufacturing, must withstand        break forces greater than a range of 35 to 45 pounds when fully        inserted into a hollow hockey stick and having the knob insert        clamped just below the step, and lateral force applied to the        stick at 28″ up the length of the hockey stick from the step. By        further example, the shaft, after manufacturing, must withstand        break forces greater than a range of 45 to 65 pounds when fully        inserted into a hollow hockey stick and having the knob insert        clamped just below the step, and lateral force applied to the        stick at 28″ up the length of the hockey stick from the step.        Generally, the shaft, after manufacturing, must withstand break        forces in a range of 20 to 40 pounds when fully inserted into a        hollow hockey stick and having the knob insert clamped just        below the step, and lateral force applied to the stick at 28″ up        the length of the hockey stick from the step.    -   (v) The sheath, after coupling with the non-tang of the knob        insert must have a durometer of 60-70 (Shore A, 5 sec, Injection        Molded). By further example, the sheath, after coupling with the        non-tang of the knob insert, must have a durometer of 70-80        (Shore A, 5 sec, Injection Molded). By further example, the        sheath, after coupling with the non-tang of the knob insert,        must have a durometer of 80-90 (Shore A, 5 sec, Injection        Molded). Generally, the sheath, after coupling with the non-tang        of the knob insert, must have a durometer of 60-80 (Shore A, 5        sec, Injection Molded).    -   (vi) The sheath, after coupling with the non-tang end of the        knob insert must have a coefficient of friction of about 50% to        70% of that of the outer surface of a hockey stick. By further        example, the sheath, after coupling with the non-tang end of the        knob insert, must have a coefficient of friction of about 70% to        90% of that of the outer surface of a hockey stick. By further        example the sheath, after coupling with the non-tang end of the        knob insert, must have a coefficient of friction of about 90% to        120% of that of the outer surface of a hockey stick. Generally,        the sheath, after coupling with the non-tang end of the knob        insert, must have a coefficient of friction of about 70% to 110%        of that of the outer surface of a hockey stick.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is a tang sized for fullinsertion into the hollow end of the hockey stick having a generallyrectangular cross section and grooves, which run longitudinally having adepth and number from 1 to 8, on the sides of the tang.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is a tang sized for fullinsertion into the hollow end of the hockey stick having a generallyrectangular cross section wherein all four longitudinal corners arechamfered to allow insertion into various brands of hollow hockey stickshaving different internal corner radii.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is a knob insert for closeinsertion into the hollow end of a metallic, polymeric or compositeshaft of a hockey stick. The knob insert comprises a tang adapted forfull insertion into the hollow end and a sheath adapted and sized to begrasped by the pinky finger, ring finger and portion of the middlefinger of the base-gripping hand.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is a knob insert for fullinsertion into the hollow end of a metallic, polymeric or compositeshaft of a hockey stick. The knob insert comprises a tang adapted forfull insertion into the hollow end and a knob sheath, rounded and shapedto be grasped by the pinky finger, ring finger and portion of the middlefinger of the base-gripping hand and to wrap around the neck portion ofthe knob insert between the step and the stick.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is a knob insert adapted forfull insertion into the hollow end of a hockey stick, the knobcomprising a central longitudinal axis, an imaginary coronal plane, animaginary sagittal plane, a tang for full insertion into the hollow endof the hockey stick, a neck adapted for being grasped by the ring fingerand portion of the middle finger of the hand of an athlete, and a stepbetween the tang and the neck adapted for abutting the end surface ofthe hollow end of the hockey stick when the tang is fully insertedtherein and chamfered longitudinal corners of the shaft that extend pastthe step.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is a knob insert adapted forfull insertion into the hollow end of a hockey stick, the knob insertcomprising a central longitudinal axis, an imaginary coronal plane, animaginary sagittal plane, a tang for full insertion into the hollow endof the hockey stick, a neck adapted for the ring finger and portion ofthe middle finger of the hand of an athlete, and a step between the tangand the neck adapted for abutting the end surface of the hollow end ofthe hockey stick when the tang is fully inserted therein and chamferedlongitudinal corners that extend past the step into the neck, and theneck having a circumference which gradually transitions from a generallyrectangular, cross sectional shape to a reduced circumference, generallyoval shape which transitions to a larger diameter circumference of thewaist and flange.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is a knob insert adapted forinsertion into the hollow end of a hockey stick, the knob insertcomprising a central longitudinal axis, a tang for close insertion intothe hollow end of the hockey stick and a sheath adapted for beinggrasped by the pinky, ring and partially by the middle finger of thehand of an athlete. The sheath comprises a posterior cantle region whichengages the hypothenar of the gripping hand providing both support andleverage and an anterior cantle region which collaborate to provide thepinky finger, ring finger and portion of the middle finger of the handwith greater grip and leverage which in effect increase the amount ofleveraged force the hand can apply to the stick thus resulting in greatpower applied through the stick and into the puck.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is a knob insert for insertioninto the hollow end of a hockey stick, the knob insert comprising ashaft and a sheath, the shaft and sheath being discrete componentshaving different properties, the knob insert further comprising a tanghaving a tang end, sized for insertion into the hollow end of the hockeystick, a knob adapted to be grasped by the hand of a user when the tangis inserted into the hollow end of the hockey stick having a knob end, astep between the tang and knob adapted for abutting the end surface ofthe hollow end of the hockey stick when the tang is inserted therein,and a central longitudinal axis extending from the tang end to the knobend; an anterior cantle region and a corresponding posterior cantleregion, the anterior and posterior cantle regions being between the stepand the knob end and on opposing sides of an imaginary coronal planecontaining the central longitudinal axis and divided by an imaginarysagittal plane that contains the central longitudinal axis and isorthogonal to the imaginary coronal plane; the anterior and posteriorcantle regions each providing a curved support surface for the hand ofthe athlete when the athlete is grasping the hockey stick, the anteriorcantle region and the posterior cantle region each having a radius ofcurvature in the sagittal plane, the radius of curvature of theposterior cantle region being greater than the radius of curvature ofthe anterior cantle region.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is a knob insert adapted forinsertion into the hollow end of a hockey stick, the knob insertcomprising a shaft and a sheath, the shaft and sheath being discretecomponents having different properties, the knob insert comprising acentral longitudinal axis, a tang for insertion into the hollow end ofthe hockey stick, a knob adapted for being grasped by the third, fourthand fifth digits of the hand of an athlete, and a step between the tangand the grip adapted for abutting the end surface of the hollow end ofthe hockey stick when the tang is inserted therein, the knob comprisinga knob end distal to the tang, an anterior cantle region and a posteriorcantle region, the anterior and posterior cantle regions being betweenthe tang and the grip end and on opposing sides of an imaginary coronalplane containing the central longitudinal axis and bisected by animaginary sagittal plane that contains the central longitudinal axis andis orthogonal to the imaginary coronal plane, the anterior and posteriorcantle regions each providing a curved support surface for the hand ofthe athlete when the athlete is gripping the end of the hockey stick,wherein the anterior cantle region and posterior cantle region areasymmetric relative to each other about the coronal plane and thesagittal plane bisects each of the posterior and the anterior cantleregions into symmetrical halves, respectively.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is a knob insert for insertioninto the hollow shaft of a hockey stick, the knob insert comprising atang for insertion into the hollow shaft of the hockey stick, a knobadapted to be grasped by the hand of an athlete when the tang isinserted into the hollow shaft of the hockey stick, and a step betweenthe tang and the knob adapted to abut an end surface of the hollow shaftof the hockey stick when the tang is inserted therein. The tang, stepand knob are aligned along a central longitudinal axis extending from atang end to a knob end of the knob insert. The knob comprises ananterior cantle region and a corresponding posterior cantle region, theanterior and posterior cantle regions being between the step and theknob end and on opposing sides of an imaginary coronal plane containingthe central longitudinal axis and divided by an imaginary sagittal planethat contains the central longitudinal axis and is orthogonal to theimaginary coronal plane. The anterior and posterior cantle regions eachproviding a curved support surface for the hand of the athlete when theathlete is gripping the hockey stick, the anterior cantle region and theposterior cantle region each having a radius of curvature in thesagittal plane, the radius of curvature of the anterior cantle regionbeing less than the radius of curvature of the posterior cantle region.The tang and the knob comprise a shaft that extends from a positionproximate the tang end to a position proximate the knob end of the knobinsert. The knob further comprises a sheath that is coupled to andsurrounds the shaft, and the shaft and the sheath are discretecomponents having different properties.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is a knob insert adapted forinsertion into the hollow shaft of a hockey stick, the knob insertcomprising a central longitudinal axis, a tang for insertion into thehollow shaft of the hockey stick, a knob adapted to be grasped by thehand of an athlete when the tang is inserted into the hollow shaft ofthe hockey stick, a step between the tang and the knob, a tang end, anda knob, the tang and knob ends being opposing ends of the knob insertand aligned along the central longitudinal axis, the knob comprising aflange proximate the knob end, an anterior cantle region, and aposterior cantle region, wherein

-   -   (i) the anterior and posterior cantle regions are between the        step and the flange,    -   (ii) the anterior and posterior cantle regions, in combination,        provide a curved support surface for the hand of the athlete,    -   (iii) each of the anterior and posterior cantle regions are        bisected into symmetrical halves by an imaginary sagittal plane        that contains the central longitudinal axis, and    -   (iv) the anterior and posterior cantle regions are on opposing        sides of and asymmetric relative to each other about an        imaginary coronal plane that contains the central longitudinal        axis and is orthogonal to the sagittal plane.

Other objects and features will be in part apparent and in part pointedout hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a profile view of one embodiment of a knob insert of thepresent disclosure for insertion into the hollow end of a hockey stick;

FIG. 2 is a ¾ view of the knob insert of FIG. 1, with a fragmentary of ahockey stick.

FIG. 3 is a profile view of the knob insert of FIG. 1, inserted into afragmentary of a hollow hockey stick (shown in phantom) with a graspinghand (shown in phantom).

FIG. 4 is a detail view of the knob portion of the knob insert of FIG.1.

FIG. 5 is a detail view of the knob portion of the knob insert of FIG.4, illustrating various horizontal cross sections.

FIG. 6 is a anterior view of the knob insert of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6A is an anterior view of the shaft of the knob insert of FIG. 1

FIG. 7 is a posterior view of the knob insert of FIG. 1, illustratingthe hypothenar support surface.

FIG. 7A is a cross-section, profile view of the left half of the knobinsert of FIG. 7.

FIG. 7B is a cross-section, profile view of the right half of the knobinsert of FIG. 7.

FIG. 8 is a top view of the knob insert of FIG. 1.

FIG. 9 is profile view of one embodiment of the shaft of the knob insertof FIG. 1, having a series of longitudinally oriented notches with thesheath portion of the knob insert shown in phantom.

FIG. 9a bottom view of the shaft of the knob insert of FIG. 1, having aseries of longitudinally oriented notches with the sheath portion of theknob insert shown in phantom.

FIG. 9B is profile view of the shaft of the knob insert of FIG. 1 withthe sheath portion shown, illustrating an anterior radius of curvature(R^(CASP2)) and a posterior radius of curvature (R^(CPSP2)).

FIG. 10 is profile view of an alternative embodiment of the shaft ofFIG. 9, with the sheath shown in phantom.

FIG. 10A is a bottom view of the shaft of FIG. 10.

FIG. 11A is a fragmentary profile view of an alternative embodiment ofthe shaft of FIG. 9, having a series of angled channels mirrored on eachside of the imaginary the sagittal plane with the sheath shown inphantom.

FIG. 11B is a fragmentary posterior view of the shaft of FIG. 11A.

FIG. 12A is a fragmentary profile view of an alternative embodiment ofthe shaft of FIG. 9, the shaft having four shaped pillars, mirrored oneach side of the imaginary the sagittal with the sheath shown inphantom.

FIG. 12B is a fragmentary posterior view of the shaft of FIG. 12A.

FIG. 13 is a profile view of an alternative embodiment of the knobinsert of FIG. 1 having extended chamfered corners of the tang and thesheath shown in phantom, illustrating an anterior radius of curvature(R^(CASP2)) and a posterior radius of curvature (R^(CPSP2)).

FIG. 14 is a profile view of a combination of a hockey stick with theknob insert of FIG. 1, fully inserted in the hollow shaft of the hockeystick, being grasped by a hand.

FIG. 15 is a fragmentary profile view of the handle end of aconventional hockey stick, shown in phantom, with a gripping hand, alsoshown in phantom, and a fulcrum point.

FIG. 16 is a profile view of knob insert of FIG. 1, shown in phantom,fully inserted into the hollow shaft of a hockey stick, shown inphantom, a gripping hand, also shown in phantom, and a fulcrum point;

FIG. 17 is a profile view of the knob insert of FIG. 1 superimposed ontoan open hand, shown in phantom, demonstrating general proportional scaleof an embodiment of the knob insert in relation to the hand of theathlete.

FIG. 18A is a profile view of an alternate embodiment of the knob insertof FIG. 1, demonstrating a cavity, sized to accommodate a sensor.

FIG. 18B is a bottom view of the knob insert of FIG. 18A.

FIG. 18C is a bottom view of the knob insert of FIG. 18A, illustratingan alternative embodiment of a cavity sized to accommodate a sensor.

FIG. 19 is a profile view of an embodiment of the knob insert of FIG. 1with hypothenar and pinky support surfaces.

FIG. 19A is a cross-section, profile view of the front or anterior halfof the knob insert of FIG. 19.

FIG. 19B is a cross-section, profile view of the back or posterior halfof the knob insert of FIG. 19.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding partsthroughout the drawings.

Abbreviations and Definitions

The following definitions and methods are provided to better define thepresent disclosure and to guide those of ordinary skill in the art inthe practice of the present disclosure. Unless otherwise noted, termsare to be understood according to conventional usage by those ofordinary skill in the relevant art.

The term “anterior” as used herein in connection with the cantle refersto the support structure that is adapted to engage the “pinky” finger.

The term “axially symmetric” as used herein refers to symmetry about anaxis in a direction that is perpendicular to the axis.

The term “break strength” as used herein is the amount of force a knobinsert of the present disclosure is capable of withstanding withoutfracturing or bending in a “break force” test.

The term “break force” test as used herein is a test in which the knobinsert is fully inserted into the hollow shaft of a hockey stick (i.e.,upon insertion, the knob insert step abuts the end of the hollow shaftof the hockey stick), the combination is securely clamped immediatelyadjacent the knob insert step and a lateral force is applied to theshaft of the hockey at a location 28 inches from the clamp and in adirection substantially perpendicular to the sagittal plane of the knobinsert.

The term “cantle” as used herein in connection with a surface refers toa surface that is curved upwardly similar to the raised, curved part atthe back of a horse saddle. In the context of the present disclosure,the cantle is a concave surface (i.e., a surface that curves inwardly inthe sagittal plane) adapted to support the hypothenar of the grippinghand. Like a cantle of a saddle, which cradles the gluteus maximus orbottom of a rider, the cantle-like structures of the knob describedherein cradles the hypothenar eminence and pinky finger of the hand in asimilar way giving support, stability and increased surface area contactto the hand throughout a swing.

The term “coronal plane” as used herein refers to a plane containing thecentral longitudinal axis dividing a knob of the present disclosure (oran element thereof) into posterior or back and anterior or front(anterior and posterior, respectively) sections. The coronal plane isorthogonal to the sagittal plane, and the two planes intersect along alinear segment of the central longitudinal axis.

The terms “couple,” “coupled,” “coupling,” and the like should bebroadly understood and refer to chemically or mechanically connectingtwo or more elements.

The term “flexural strength” as used herein is defined as the stress ina material just before it yields in a flexure test in which a specimenhaving a circular or rectangular cross-section is bent until fracture oryielding using a three point flexural test technique. The flexuralstrength represents the highest stress experienced within the materialat its moment of rupture in a flexural test such as ASTM D 790-10.

The term “posterior” as used herein in connection with the cantle refersto the support structure that is adapted to engage the hypothenar (i.e.,heal of the hand) and is also referred to as the back.

The term “anterior” as used herein in connection with the cantle refersto the support structure that is adapted to engage the pinky (i.e., thefifth finger of the hand) and is also referred to as the front.

The term “sagittal plane” as used herein refers to a vertical,longitudinal plane containing the central longitudinal axis which passesfrom anterior, or front, to posterior, or back, along the centrallongitudinal axis, dividing a knob of the present disclosure (or anelement thereof) into right and left halves. The sagittal plane isorthogonal to the coronal plane, and the two planes intersect along alinear segment of the central longitudinal axis.

The term “supplementary angles” as used herein refers to two angleshaving a sum of 180 degrees.

When introducing elements of the present disclosure or theembodiments(s) thereof, the articles “a”, “an”, “the” and “said” areintended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms“comprising”, “including” and “having” are intended to be inclusive andnot exclusive (i.e., there may be other elements in addition to therecited elements). The use of “or” means “and/or” unless specificallystated otherwise, and the use of the singular includes the plural andplural encompasses singular, unless specifically stated otherwise.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In brief overview, the present disclosure features an ergonomic knobinsert for use with a hollow hockey stick used to play hockey. Morespecifically, the knob insert is adapted to be fully inserted into thehollow end of a hockey stick to provide support surfaces for the hand,specifically the hypothenar eminence and corresponding support surfacefor the pinky finger and ring finger of the gripping hand.Advantageously the insert facilitates a range of motion and grip of thehand to provide increased support, increased surface area contact,increased grip stability, increased handling precision, increased stickcontrol, increased power transfer from hands through the stick to thetargeted puck and/or a reduction of compression factors that inhibitstick-handling. Additionally, the structure of the knob insertdistributes compressive forces across a greater area of the hypothenarof the gripping hand providing increased surface area contact resultingin increased grip control, performance and a reduction of focusedcompression force that cause premature wear and tear on hockey glovesand injuries to the hand. The knob insert is configured such that whenfully inserted into the hollow end of a hockey stick, hockey playersmaintain their ability to concurrently grasp both the knob and thehandle-end of the shaft of the hockey stick. Additionally, the knobinsert described herein, when fully inserted into the hollow end of ahockey stick, may be optionally covered entirely or partially with tape(e.g., a conventional hockey stick tape or other friction tape) by aplayer to accommodate their personal preferences. Additionally, the knobinsert described herein features a hollow cavity to house a sensor totrack or monitor motion, speed angle and maneuvering of the hockey stickinto which the knob insert is fully inserted.

In general, the knob insert comprises a knob that is adapted for beinggrasped by the hand of a hockey player and a tang extending from theknob that is adapted for insertion into the hollow end of a hockeystick. In a preferred embodiment, the tang outer surface engages theinner surface of the hollow shaft of the hockey stick and the sheathabuts the hollow end of the hockey stick when the knob insert is fullyinserted into the hollow end of the hockey stick (see, e.g., FIG. 14).The knob insert may comprise any of a variety and combination ofmaterials that provide the desired mechanical strength and tactileproperties for the knob insert.

In a preferred embodiment, the knob insert comprises a shaft and asheath that, in combination, are comprised by the knob and tang elementsof the knob insert. More specifically, in this embodiment the knobcomprises the sheath and the shaft (with the sheath being coupled to andsurrounding the shaft) and the tang comprises the shaft. Advantageously,the two components are discrete components of the knob insert and, in apreferred embodiment, have different properties. For example, in oneembodiment the shaft and the sheath have different physical and/ormechanical properties, and/or they may be formed from chemicallydistinct materials. By way of further example, in one such embodimentthe shaft contributes desired mechanical properties (e.g., strength,ductility, hardness, impact resistance, and/or fracture toughness) tothe tang and knob components while the sheath provides the desiredphysical properties (e.g., compressibility, hardness, elasticity,coefficient of friction, and/or texture) to the knob component.

In general, the shaft has sufficient mechanical properties to withstandthe forces routinely encountered in the sport of hockey. For example,the shaft preferably has a flexural strength that enable the shaft toresist bending and fracturing experienced during the rigors of hockey(when the knob insert is inserted into the hollow shaft of a hockeystick and the combination is used in the sport of hockey). For example,in one embodiment the shaft of the knob insert has a flexural strengthof at least about 10,000 psi as determined in accordance with ASTM D790.By way of further example, in one such embodiment the shaft of the knobinsert has a flexural strength of at least 15,000 psi as determined inaccordance with ASTM D790. By way of further example, in one suchembodiment the shaft of the knob insert has a flexural strength of atleast 20,000 psi as determined in accordance with ASTM D790. By way offurther example, in one such embodiment the shaft of the knob insert hasa flexural strength of at least 25,000 psi as determined in accordancewith ASTM D790. By way of further example, in one such embodiment theshaft of the knob insert has a flexural strength of at least 30,000 psias determined in accordance with ASTM D790. By way of further example,in one such embodiment the shaft of the knob insert has a flexuralstrength of at least 35,000 psi as determined in accordance with ASTMD790. By way of further example, in one such embodiment the shaft of theknob insert has a flexural strength of at least 40,000 psi as determinedin accordance with ASTM D790.

In one embodiment, the mechanical properties of the shaft of the knobinsert may be determined in a “break force” test which simulates forcesthat may be experienced during hockey play. In this test, the knobinsert is fully inserted into the hollow shaft of a hockey stick andclamped in a vice on the knob side of the step, and a lateral force isapplied to the hockey stick, 23.5 inches longitudinally up the sticktoward the blade end of the stick from the step of the knob insert. Inone embodiment, the shaft has sufficient mechanical strength to providethe knob insert with a break strength of at least 15 pounds. By way offurther example, in one such embodiment, the shaft has sufficientmechanical strength to provide the knob insert with a break strength ofat least 17.5 pounds. By way of further example, in one such embodiment,the shaft has sufficient mechanical strength to provide the knob insertwith a break strength of at least 20 pounds. By way of further example,in one such embodiment, the shaft has sufficient mechanical strength toprovide the knob insert with a break strength of at least 22.5 pounds.By way of further example, in one such embodiment, the shaft hassufficient mechanical strength to provide the knob insert with a breakstrength of at least 25 pounds. By way of further example, in one suchembodiment, the shaft has sufficient mechanical strength to provide theknob insert with a break strength of at least 30 pounds. By way offurther example, in one such embodiment, the shaft has sufficientmechanical strength to provide the knob insert with a break strength ofat least 35 pounds. By way of further example, in one such embodiment,the shaft has sufficient mechanical strength to provide the knob insertwith a break strength of at least 40 pounds. By way of further example,in one such embodiment, the shaft has sufficient mechanical strength toprovide the knob insert with a break strength of at least 45 pounds. Byway of further example, in one such embodiment, the shaft has sufficientmechanical strength to provide the knob insert with a break strength ofat least 50 pounds. By way of further example, in one such embodiment,the shaft has sufficient mechanical strength to provide the knob insertwith a break strength of at least 55 pounds. By way of further example,in one such embodiment, the shaft has sufficient mechanical strength toprovide the knob insert with a break strength of at least 60 pounds. Byway of further example, in one such embodiment, the shaft has sufficientmechanical strength to provide the knob insert with a break strength ofat least 65 pounds.

In one embodiment, the mechanical properties of the material(s), whichmake up the shaft of the knob insert, may be determined by “TensileStrength at yield, 73° F.”, which simulates forces that may beexperienced during hockey play. In one embodiment, the shaft materialhas a Tensile Strength of at least 18,000 psi using ASTM/ISO procedureD638. By way of further example, in one such embodiment, the shaftmaterial has a Tensile Strength of at least 19,000 psi using ASTM/ISOprocedure D638. By way of further example, in one such embodiment, theshaft material has sufficient Tensile Strength of at least 21,000 psiusing ASTM/ISO procedure D638. By way of further example, in one suchembodiment, the shaft material has a Tensile Strength of at least 23,000psi using ASTM/ISO procedure D638. By way of further example, in onesuch embodiment, the shaft material has a Tensile Strength of at least26,000 psi using ASTM/ISO procedure D638. By way of further example, inone such embodiment, the shaft material has a Tensile Strength of atleast 29,000 psi using ASTM/ISO procedure D638. By way of furtherexample, in one such embodiment, the shaft material has a TensileStrength of at least 31,000 psi using ASTM/ISO procedure D638. By way offurther example, in one such embodiment, the shaft material has aTensile Strength of at least 33,000 psi using ASTM/ISO procedure D638.By way of further example, in one such embodiment, the shaft materialhas a Tensile Strength of at least 37,000 psi using ASTM/ISO procedureD638. By way of further example, in one such embodiment, the shaftmaterial has a Tensile Strength of at least 41,000 psi using ASTM/ISOprocedure D638. By way of further example, in one such embodiment, theshaft material has a Tensile Strength of at least 45,000 psi usingASTM/ISO procedure D638. By way of further example, in one suchembodiment, the shaft material has a Tensile Strength of at least 50,000psi using ASTM/ISO procedure D638. By way of further example, in onesuch embodiment, the shaft material has a Tensile Strength of at least70,000 psi using ASTM/ISO procedure D638.

In some embodiments the shaft comprises a metal, a metal alloy, apolymer, wood, a composite, a laminate of two or more materials, or acombination thereof. Exemplary metals and metal alloys include aluminum,aluminum alloys, nickel, nickel alloys such as nickel iron, and cobaltalloys such as cobalt phosphorous. Exemplary polymers include epoxyresins, polyamines, polyamides, polycarbonates, polyesters, polyethers,polyimides, polyurethanes, polyvinyl chlorides, nylons, thermoplasticvulcanizates, laser-fused plastic powders, or a copolymer or blendthereof. In some embodiments the shaft comprises a composite such as afiber-reinforced polymer wherein the polymer is one of theaforementioned polymers or a co-polymer or blend thereof. In someembodiments, the shaft comprises a composite of one or more of theaforementioned polymers, copolymers or blends and a reinforcing fibersuch as aluminum fibers, an aramid or other polymeric fibers, carbonfibers, ceramic fibers, carbon nanotubes, glass fibers or a combinationthereof. In some embodiments the shaft is a laminate of wood or apolymeric material and a fiber-reinforced composite. Additionally, theshaft may be solid, or wholly or partly hollow.

In general, the sheath may independently comprise any of the materialsidentified for the knob shaft. In certain embodiments, however, thesheath preferably comprises a polymer or a polymer composite. Exemplarypolymers include epoxy resins, polyamines, polyamides, polycarbonates,polyesters, polyethers, polyimides, polyurethanes, polyvinyl chlorides,nylons, thermoplastic vulcanizates, laser-fused plastic powders, or acopolymer or blend thereof. In some embodiments the sheath comprises acomposite such as a fiber-reinforced polymer wherein the polymer is oneof the aforementioned polymers or a co-polymer or blend thereof. In someembodiments, the sheath comprises a composite of one or more of theaforementioned polymers, copolymers or blends and a reinforcing fibersuch as aluminum fibers, an aramid or other polymeric fibers, carbonfibers, ceramic fibers, carbon nanotubes, glass fibers or a combinationthereof. In one embodiment, the sheath comprises a rubber-likeelastomer.

The sheath preferably has a hardness appropriate for a hockey stick. Forexample, in one embodiment the sheath has a Shore hardness of in therange of 60-70 Shore A (5 sec, Injection Molded). By way of furtherexample, in one embodiment the sheath has a Shore hardness of in therange of 70-80 Shore A (5 sec, Injection Molded). By way of furtherexample, in one embodiment the sheath has a Shore hardness of in therange of 80-90 Shore A (5 sec, Injection Molded).

The sheath will typically also possess other mechanical properties thatprovide the knob with a texture and “stickiness” that is tailored forbeing grasped by the glove of a hockey athlete. In one embodiment, whenthe knob insert is fully inserted into the hollow shaft of a hockeystick, the sheath has a coefficient of friction of about 50% to 70% ofthat of the outer surface of the shaft of the hockey stick. By way offurther example, in one embodiment when the knob insert is fullyinserted into the hollow shaft of a hockey stick, the sheath has acoefficient of friction of about 70% to 90% of that of the outer surfaceof the shaft of the hockey stick. By way of further example, in oneembodiment when the knob insert is fully inserted into the hollow shaftof a hockey stick, the sheath has a coefficient of friction of about 90%to 120% of that of the outer surface of a hockey stick. Generally, whenthe knob insert is fully inserted into the hollow shaft of a hockeystick, the sheath has a coefficient of friction of about 70% to 110% ofthat of the outer surface of a hockey stick.

Independent of the materials of construction for each of the shaft andthe sheath, the two discrete components are preferably chemically and/ormechanically coupled in a manner that provides the knob insert withsufficient strength to withstand the rigors of hockey. For example, inone embodiment the sheath is over-molded onto the shaft and the adhesionbetween the two provide sufficient structural integrity of the knobinsert and between the two materials such that one doesn't slip or moveagainst the other. In other embodiments, the sheath may be welded,glued, otherwise adhered or even mechanically coupled to the shaft.

As previously noted, the knob insert is adapted to be inserted into thehollow shaft of a hockey stick. In some embodiments, the hockey stickhollow shaft (handle) may comprise a material other than wood. Forexample, the hockey stick shaft may comprise a material selected fromthe group consisting of ceramics, metals, polymers, composites, andcombinations thereof (in laminate or non-laminate form). For example, insome embodiments the hockey stick shaft may comprise a metal or an alloythereof. Exemplary metals and metal alloys include aluminum, aluminumalloys, nickel, nickel alloys such as nickel iron, and cobalt alloyssuch as cobalt phosphorous. By way of further example, in someembodiments the hollow shaft comprises a polymer such as an epoxy resin,polyamine, polyamide, polycarbonate, polyester, polyether, polyimide,polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride, or a copolymer or blend thereof. Byway of further example, in some embodiments the hollow shaft comprises acomposite such as a fiber-reinforced polymer wherein the polymer is oneof the aforementioned polymers and the reinforcing fiber comprisesaluminum fibers, an aramid or other polymeric fibers, carbon fibers,ceramic fibers, carbon nanotubes, glass fibers or a combination thereof.By way of further example, in one embodiment the hollow shaft comprisesa laminate comprising an outer layer of resin-impregnated wood veneerformed integrally with an inner sheath of a fiber-reinforced fabric andresin composite. By way of further example, in one embodiment the hollowshaft the two outer layers are formed over a shaft, which may be formedof foamed plastic shaft. In an alternative embodiment, the foam shaftextends through the handle area and the blade is formed of syntheticfibers overlaid and bonded to an outer wood veneer sheath by resin,which impregnates both layers.

Referring now to FIG. 1, a knob insert in accordance with one embodimentof the present disclosure is generally indicated by the referencenumeral 1. Knob insert 1 comprises a shaft 1.9 and a sheath 1.2 disposedalong central longitudinal axis 1.1; the portion of the shaft that iscovered by sheath 1.2 constitutes the knob structure 1.16 and theportion of the shaft that is not covered by the sheath 1.2 constitutestang 1.3.

Tang 1.3 is adapted for being inserted into the hollow end of a hockeystick (see FIG. 14). In some embodiments, the outer diameter andcross-sectional shape of the tang is adapted to conform to and closelyfit the inner longitudinal cross-section diameter and interior of ahollow hockey stick. For example, the tang may have a polygonal (e.g.,triangular, square, rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, octagonal, etc.)oval, round or other regular or irregular cross-sectional shape that isadapted to conform to and closely fit the inner cross-sectional shape ofthe hollow stick. Additionally, the tang will have a length (measuredalong central longitudinal axis 1.1) to provide adequate insertion depthinto the hollow shaft of a hockey stick to provide a secure and solidconnection between the knob insert and the stick. For example, in oneembodiment tang 1.3 has a length (measured along central axis 1.1 fromstep 1.14 to tang end 1.10) of about 2 inches to about 3 inches. By wayof further example, in one embodiment tang 1.3 has a length of about 3inches to about 5 inches. By way of further example, in one embodimenttang 1.3 has a length of about 5 inches to about 12 inches.Additionally, in one embodiment, upon insertion of tang 1.3 into thehollow end of the hockey stick, central longitudinal axis 1.1 is alignedwith the central longitudinal axis of the hockey stick, 14.5 (see FIG.14), to provide a shared common longitudinal axis, 3.1. Additionally,the ratio of the longitudinal length of the tang to the longitudinallength of the knob 1.17 is generally in the range of about 1:2 to 2:1,respectively. For example, in one embodiment the ratio of thelongitudinal length of the tang to the longitudinal length of the knob1.17 is generally in the range of about 1:1.5 to 1.5:1, respectively. Byway of further example, the ratio of the longitudinal length of the tangto the longitudinal length of the knob 1.17 is generally in the range ofabout 1:1.25 to 1.25:1, respectively. By way of further example, theratio of the longitudinal length of the tang to the longitudinal lengthof the knob 1.17 is generally in the range of about 1:1.1 to 1.1:1,respectively. Stated differently, the length of the tang 1.3, along thecentral longitudinal length of the knob insert 1, is generally about ⅓to about ⅔ of the total longitudinal length of the knob insert 1, about45% to about 55%, about 47.5% to about 52.5% or even about 49% to about51% of the longitudinal length of the knob insert.

There are many options for securing the tang to the interior shaft ofthe hollow stick which include, but are not limited to screws, nails,staples, tape, glue, adhesive, heat-activated glue, epoxies and others.In one embodiment, the tang end 1.10 is beveled 1.11 (e.g., chamfered),generally 30° to 60° from the longitudinal sides toward the central axisof the knob, to allow for easier initial guided insertion of the tanginto the hollow end of the stick. Additionally, in one such embodimentthe tang has chamfered longitudinal corners, 1.12, generally 30° to 60°from the four longitudinal facing sides that extend generally from belowthe tang step 1.14 and extend up to the bevel 1.11. Longitudinalfilleted grooves 1.13 (running generally parallel to longitudinal axis1.1) extend generally from the above the step 1.14 to the butt end ofthe tang, 1.10. In one embodiment the filleted grooves are 1/32″ deep to4/32″ deep. In another embodiment the filleted grooves are 4/32″ deep to8/32″ deep. In other embodiments the longitudinal grooves are roundedand in others they are rectangular in cross section.

Step 1.14 is adapted to abut the handle end of the hockey stick shaftwhen the tang is fully inserted into the hollow end thereof and is sizedto provide a close, smooth transition from the outer surface of thestick to the outer surface of the knob structure, 1.17. In general,therefore, step will typically have a size that matches the thickness ofthe wall of the hockey stick (see, e.g., FIGS. 2, 3 14 and 16).

The sheath 1.2 is adapted to provide a structure and surface thatenables an athlete to firmly grasp the knob insert while supporting anathlete's gripping hand as demonstrated in FIG. 3. The knob extends fromstep 1.14 to butt end 1.7 and includes neck region 1.4, waist 1.5, andflange 1.6.

In one embodiment and referring now to FIGS. 7, 7A and 7B, the knobinsert is divided into two parts by imaginary sagittal plane, SP. In onesuch embodiment, the knob insert is bisected by imaginary sagittal planeSP into cross-sections, FIG. 7A, and cross-section FIG. 7B,respectively, and the outer surfaces of the two cross-sections aremirror images of each other about sagittal plane SP. Additionally, in apreferred embodiment, sagittal plane SP is approximately aligned withthe length of the hockey stick blade when the knob insert is insertedinto the hollow shaft of a hockey stick, (see FIG. 14).

In one embodiment and referring now to FIG. 9B and moving along centrallongitudinal axis 1.1 in a direction toward flange 1.6, anterior cantleregion 6.1 and posterior cantle region 7.1 gradually curve away fromcentral longitudinal axis (i.e., the surfaces are each concave surfacesin imaginary sagittal plane SP) with the surface of anterior cantleregion 6.1 having a radius of curvature R^(CASP1), that is less than theradius of curvature R^(CPSP1) of the surface of posterior cantle region7.1 (see FIG. 1) wherein radii R^(CASP1) and R^(CPSP1) are radii ofcurvature of the surfaces of the knob in the sagittal plane (and onopposite sides of the coronal plane). For example, in one embodiment,the ratio of R^(CPSP1) to R^(CASP1) will be at least 2:1. By way offurther example, in one embodiment the ratio of R^(CPSP1) to R^(CASP1)will be at least 3:1. By way of further example, in one embodiment theratio of R^(CPSP1) to R^(CASP1) will be at least 4:1. By way of furtherexample, in one embodiment the ratio of R^(CPSP1) to R^(CASP1) will beat least 5:1. In general, however, the ratio of R^(CPSP1) to R^(CASP1)will be less than about 20:1 and in some embodiments the ratio ofR^(CPSP1) to R^(CASP1) will be less than about 15:1.

In some embodiments the ratio of R^(CPSP1) to R^(CASP1) will be in therange of about 3:1 to about 20:1. For example, in one embodiment theratio of R^(CPSP1) to R^(CASP1) will be in the range of about 4:1 toabout 17.5:1. By way of further in one embodiment the ratio of R^(CPSP1)to R^(CASP1) will be in the range of about 5:1 to about 15:1. By way offurther in one embodiment the ratio of R^(CPSP1) to R^(CASP1) will be inthe range of about 5:1 to about 10:1. As a result of the difference inthe radii of curvature (i.e., R^(CPSP1)>R^(CASP1)) the volume ofposterior cantle region exceeds the volume of anterior cantle region.

In one embodiment and referring now to FIGS. 6, 19, 19A and 19B the knobinsert 1 is divided into two parts by imaginary coronal plane, CP,wherein the coronal plane contains central longitudinal axis 1.1 and isperpendicular to sagittal plane SP. In one such embodiment, the knobinsert is bisected by imaginary coronal plane CP into two cross-sections(FIGS. 19A, 19B) that have outer surfaces that are asymmetric relativeto each other about coronal plane CP (i.e., the outer surfaces of thetwo cross-sections are not mirror images of each other about coronalplane CP). Additionally, and moving along central longitudinal axis 1.1in a direction toward flange 1.6, the knob gradually curve away fromcentral longitudinal axis (i.e., the surfaces are each concave surfacesin imaginary coronal plane CP) with similar radii of curvature R^(CCP1),R^(CCP2) (see FIG. 6). The radii of curvature R^(CCP1) and R^(CCP2) ofthe surfaces of the shaft in the coronal plane (and on opposite sides ofthe sagittal plane) are comparable. For example, in one embodiment theratio of R^(CCP1) to R^(CCP2) (the ratio of the respective radii ofcurvature) is in the range of about 2:1 to about 1:2. By way of furtherexample, in one such embodiment the ratio of R^(CCP1) to R^(CCP2) (theratio of the respective radii of curvature) is in the range of about1.75:1 to about 1:1.75. By way of further example, in one suchembodiment the ratio of R^(CCP1) to R^(CCP2) (the ratio of therespective radii of curvature) is in the range of about 1.5:1 to about1:1.5. By way of further example, in one such embodiment the ratio ofR^(VCP1) to R^(CCP2) (the ratio of the respective radii of curvature) isin the range of about 1.25:1 to about 1:1.25. By way of further example,in one such embodiment the ratio of R^(VCP1) to R^(CCP2) (the ratio ofthe respective radii of curvature) is in the range of about 1.1:1 toabout 1:1.1.

Referring now to FIG. 2, the knob insert is adapted for fulllongitudinal insertion into a hollow, generally rectangular hockeystick, as indicated 14.1, as a greater number of hockey sticks arecomprised. Step 1.14 provides a smooth transition from the rectangularcross-section shape of the stick to the neck of the knob. Neck 1.4provides a transition from the generally smoothly curved waist (aspreviously described in connection with FIG. 1) from step 1.14, having agenerally rectangular cross sectional shape, whose outer mostcircumference dimensions, align with the outer most cross-sectionalcircumference dimensions of the hollow end of the stick to which theknob insert is affixed. FIG. 2 shows the tang structure, 1.3, shaped andaligned for close insertion into the hollow, longitudinal end of ahockey stick, 14.1 having longitudinal axis 14.5. Upon insertion of tang1.4 into the hollow end of the stick, central longitudinal axis 1.1 andstick longitudinal axis 14.5 are coincident.

FIG. 3 illustrates the knob insert of FIG. 1, with a gripping hand shownin phantom and with tang 1.3, fully inserted into the hollow end of ahockey stick, 14.1, shown in phantom, having a longitudinal axis 14.5that is coincident (shown as hollow bullet points indicated 3.1) withcentral longitudinal axis 1.1. As further illustrated, the hypothenar ofthe gripping hand (shown in phantom) is cradled by the posterior cantleregion, generally indicated 7.1, and the small or pinky finger isgripping the anterior cantle structure generally indicated 6.1. Ingeneral, anterior region 6.1 and posterior cantle region 7.1 areseparated by imaginary coronal plane CP coincident with centrallongitudinal axis 1.1 (also indicated in FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7A-C 8,9A, 9B 10B, 11B, 12B, 14, 17, 18A, 18B and 18C).

Given the longitudinal symmetry of the knob insert (about the imaginarysagittal plane) as illustrated and described in connection with FIGS. 7,7A, and 7B, the gripping hand, left or right hand, gripping the sameknob portion, 1.17, will properly align the gripping anatomy of the handwith the supporting structures of the knob to provide proper support andgrip to either a left or right handed grip. Additionally, thisarrangement allows the pinky finger, ring finger and portion of themiddle finger of the gripping hand to firmly grasp, generally around thecentral axis of the knob, 1.17, in opposition to the hypothenar, asdemonstrated in FIG. 3, thereby enabling a strong and stable grasp onthe knob and thus to the stick to which the knob insert is attached.Further, the external longitudinal surfaces of the hockey stick directlyabut the external longitudinal surfaces of the neck of the knob 1.4providing a smooth contiguous surface from stick to knob sheath.Further, the length of the neck 1.4, as measured along the central axis,1.1, is sized such that the gripping structures of the hand (pinkyfinger, ring finger and portion of the middle finger) are engaging theknob insert and thus affording the balance of the gripping structures ofthe hand (portion of the middle finger, first finger and thumb) of thehand the ability to grasp the handle end of the hockey stick. Theconcurrent nature of the grip described, provides direct control of thehockey stick for the player. Another way of stating this, when knobinsert 1 is fully inserted into the hockey stick 14.1, the knob providesthe pinky finger, ring finger and portion of the middle finger of thehand surfaces to grasp in concert with, both the neck portion of theknob insert and the end portion of the hockey stick thus maintaining theplayers “feel” for the stick;

Referring to FIG. 4, in one embodiment neck 1.4, aligned on the centrallongitudinal axis 1.1, is adapted to provide a transitional surface forthe distal and proximal palmar portions of the hand, the pinky finger,ring finger and portion of the middle finger of the gripping hand tograsp (see FIG. 3) and a smooth transition from the step, 1.14, to waist1.5 when tang 1.3 is fully inserted into the hollow end of the hockeystick. In one such embodiment, neck 1.4 is sized and constructed to abutstep 1.14 against the insertion-end of the hockey stick with parallelsurface alignment of outer surface of the neck with the outerlongitudinal surfaces of the hollow stick. In another example, at step1.14, the neck has an outer diameter and cross-sectional shape adaptedto conform to the outer diameter and cross-sectional shape of the hockeystick. Neck 1.4 can be of varying lengths, cross sectional shapes andperimeters without departing from the principles of the disclosure. Forexample, in one embodiment neck 1.4 has a length (measured along centrallongitudinal axis 1.1) of at least about 0.25 inches. In general,however, neck will have a length of less than about 12 inches. In someexemplary embodiments, the neck will have a length of about 0.25 toabout 4 inches. In other embodiments, the neck will have a length ofabout 1 to 4 inches. In other embodiments, the neck will have a lengthof about 1 to about 2 inches. In other embodiments, the neck will have alength of about 0.5 to about 1.5 inches.

Waist 1.5, aligned on the central longitudinal axis 1.1, extends betweenneck 1.4, generally indicated imaginary plane 5.1 and flange 1.6 and isadapted to provide a supporting surface for the pinky finger, ringfinger and portion of the middle finger of the gripping hand and thehypothenar eminence of the athlete's gripping hand. Waist 1.5 can be ofvarying lengths and perimeters without departing from the principles ofthe disclosure. For example, in one embodiment waist 1.5 has a length(measured along central longitudinal axis 1.1) of at least about 0.75inches. In general, however, the waist will have a length of less thanabout 3 inches. In some exemplary embodiments, the waist will have alength of about 1 to about 2.5 inches. In other embodiments, the waistwill have a length of about 1.5 to 2.5 inches. In other embodiments, thewaist will have a length of about 1.75 to about 2.5 inches. In otherembodiments, the waist will have a length of about 1.75 to about 2.25inches.

Referring now to FIG. 5, following from step 1.14, along thelongitudinal axis 1.1, to waist 1.5, to flange 1.6, the neck 1.4transitions from a generally rectangular cross-section, as indicated byimaginary transverse plane 5.11 (cross-section taken at plane 5.1) asshown in FIG. 5A, through intermediate cross-section 5.21 (cross-sectiontaken at plane 5.2) as shown in FIG. 5B to an oval cross section shapeas indicated by 5.31 (cross-section taken at plane 5.3) as shown in FIG.5C; in the transition from cross-section 5.21 to cross-section 5.31, thecircumference of the waist 1.5 decreases. Moving again longitudinallyfrom imaginary plane 5.3, along the central longitudinal axis towardflange 1.6, waist 1.5 smoothly increases in circumference asdemonstrated by imaginary planes 5.41 (cross-section taken at plane 5.4)as shown in FIG. 5D and 5.51 (cross-section taken at plane 5.5) as shownin FIG. 5E to flange 1.6. The transition from the neck gradually narrowspast imaginary planes 5.1 and 5.2 to form a narrower rounded structurethat is smaller and generally rounded in cross section (5.31 and 5.41)comparison to the generally rectangular cross-sectional shape of theneck, 5.11. An imaginary anterior longitudinal plane and imaginaryposterior longitudinal plane are depicted by 5.6 and 5.7, respectively.

Referring now to FIG. 4, flange 1.6 is configured to cooperate with theuser's hand (see FIG. 3) so as to help prevent the user's hand fromslipping from the knob 1.17 and terminates in generally planar bottomsurface 1.7 (at the knob end) disposed at an oblique angle 1.8 relativeto central longitudinal axis 1.1. In general, the flange, 1.6 will havea circumference that exceeds the circumference of the neck 5.11proximate step 1.14. For example, in one embodiment flange 1.6 will havea circumference that is at least 110% of the circumference of the neck1.4 proximate step 1.14. By way of further example, in one embodimentflange 1.6 will have a circumference that is at least 150% of thecircumference of the neck 1.4 proximate step 1.14. By way of furtherexample, in one embodiment flange 1.6 will have a circumference that isat least 200% of the circumference of the neck 1.4 proximate step 1.14.Typically, however, flange 1.6 will have a circumference that is lessthan 300% of the circumference of the neck 1.4 proximate step 1.14.Thus, in some embodiments flange 1.6 will have a circumference that isin the range of about 110 to 300% of the circumference of the neck 1.4proximate step 1.14. For example, in some embodiments flange 1.6 willhave a circumference that is in the range of 110 to 150%, 150 to 200% oreven 200 to 300% of the circumference of the neck 1.4 proximate step1.14.

In one embodiment, surface 1.7 of grip end is at an oblique anglerelative to central longitudinal axis. For example, and still referringto FIG. 4 in one embodiment, flange 1.6, centered on 1.1, is comprisedof obtuse angle A, which is between 90 and 170 degrees and acute angle Bis between 10 and 90 degrees, wherein obtuse angle A and acute angle Bare supplementary angles. By way of further example, in one embodimentangle A is between 90 and 120 and degrees and angle B is between 90 and60 degrees, wherein angles A and B are supplementary angles. By way offurther example in one embodiment angle A is between 120 and 170 degreesand angle B is between 60 and 10 degrees, wherein angles A and B aresupplementary angles.

In one embodiment, knob 1.17, centered on the longitudinal central axis1.1, will have a length, as measured along central longitudinal axis1.1, that is about 5 to about 95% of the distance between flange 1.6 andtang end 1.10 and tang 1.3 will have a complementary length, as measuredalong central longitudinal axis 1.1, that is about 95 to about 5% of thedistance between flange 1.6 and tang end 1.10. For example, in one suchembodiment, knob 1.17 will have a length, as measured along centrallongitudinal axis 1.1, that is about 15 to about 85% of the distancebetween flange 1.6 and tang end 1.10 and tang 1.3 will have acomplementary length, as measured along central longitudinal axis 1.1,that is about 85 to about 15% of the distance between flange 1.6 andtang end 1.10. By way of further example, in one embodiment knob 1.17will have a length, as measured along central longitudinal axis 1.1,that is about 25 to about 75% of the distance between flange 1.6 andtang end 1.10 and tang 1.3 will have a complementary length, as measuredalong central longitudinal axis 1.1, that is about 75 to about 25% ofthe distance between flange 1.6 and tang end 1.10. By way of furtherexample, in one embodiment, knob 1.17 will have a length, as measuredalong central longitudinal axis 1.1, that is about 35 to about 65% ofthe distance between flange 1.6 and tang end 1.10 and tang 1.3 will havea complementary length, as measured along central longitudinal axis 1.1,that is about 65 to about 35% of the distance between flange 1.6 andtang end 1.10. By way of further example, in one embodiment knob 1.17will have a length, as measured along central longitudinal axis 1.1,that is about 40 to about 60% of the distance between flange 1.6 andtang end 1.10 and tang 1.3 will have a complementary length, as measuredalong central longitudinal axis 1.1, that is about 60 to about 40% ofthe distance between flange 1.6 and tang end 1.10.

Referring now to FIG. 6, the sagittal plane SP divides the knob insertinto two longitudinal halves (sometimes referred to as the left andright longitudinal halves as viewed in FIG. 6 relative to the sagittalplane). As previously described, anterior cantle region smoothlytransitions at the coronal plane CP. Additionally, the knob graduallycurves away from central longitudinal axis (i.e., the surfaces are eachconcave surfaces in imaginary coronal plane CP) and the radii ofcurvature R^(CCP1) and R^(CCP2) of the surfaces of the knob in thecoronal plane (and on opposite sides of the sagittal plane) arecomparable. For example, in one embodiment the ratio of R^(CCP1) toR^(CCP2) (the ratio of the respective radii of curvature) is in therange of about 2:1 to about 1:2. By way of further example, in one suchembodiment the ratio of R^(CCP1) to R^(CCP2) is in the range of about1.75:1 to about 1:1.75. By way of further example, in one suchembodiment the ratio of R^(CCP1) to R^(CCP2) is in the range of about1.5:1 to about 1:1.5. By way of further example, in one such embodimentthe ratio of R^(CCP1) to R^(CCP2) is in the range of about 1.25:1 toabout 1:1.25. By way of further example, in one such embodiment theratio of R^(CCP1) to R^(CCP2) is in the range of about 1.1:1 to about1:1.1.

Referring now to FIGS. 7, 7A and 7B, the posterior cantle region 7.1(indicated by dashed lines) is illustrated in accordance with oneembodiment. As previously described, posterior cantle region smoothlytransitions to the anterior cantle region on the opposing side of theknob (see, e.g., FIG. 3). The two longitudinal halves of the knob, leftlongitudinal half 7.1B and right longitudinal half 7.1C are separated bythe imaginary sagittal plane, SP, (coincident with central longitudinalaxis 1.1) are mirrored shapes, providing the same supporting structureto the pinky and ring fingers of a gripping hand, regardless of whichhand is gripping knob FIG. 1—left hand or right hand.

Additionally, anterior cantle region 6.1 and posterior cantle region 7.1each increase in size moving along central longitudinal axis in thedirection of flange 1.6. Stated differently, the cross-sectional area ofanterior cantle region 6.1 and posterior cantle region 7.1 taken alongimaginary sagittal plane SP exceeds the cross-sectional area ofposterior cantle region 6.1 and anterior cantle region 7.1 taken alongimaginary plane SP. As a result, anterior cantle region 7.1 provides amore gradual transition between the neck 1.4 and flange 1.6, therebyproviding a more comfortable and contoured resting place for thehypothenar eminence or “heal” of the hand, the palmar arches, and thepinky finger and ring finger.

Referring now to FIG. 8, a top view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1,from the generally rectangular tang-end 1.10 of the knob insert with thecentral longitudinal axis of the knob insert indicated as point 1.1. Thetop view of the anterior cantle region is generally indicated 6.1 andthe top view of the posterior cantle gripping structure is generallyindicated 7.1. The mirrored longitudinal halves of the knob, aspreviously described, are generally indicated 7B and 7C. Beveled surface1.11 provides a transition from tang end 1.10 to outer the outer tangsurface.

As demonstrated in FIG. 13 the anterior and posterior cantle supportstructures (6.1 and 7.1 respectively) remain generally unchanged whilethe shape of the tang and the neck of the knob insert may comprisedifferent dimensions and shapes without departing from the scope of thepresent disclosure.

Referring now to FIGS. 9, 9 a, and 9 b, a knob insert generallyindicated by the reference numeral 1 is illustrated with the sheath 1.2shown in phantom to better illustrate one embodiment of shaft 1.9. Aspreviously noted, in one embodiment the sheath is coupled to the shaftand the adhesion between the two provide sufficient structural integrityof the knob insert and between the two materials such that one doesn'tslip or move against the other. FIGS. 9, 9A and 9B thus illustrate anembodiment in which shaft 1.9 has an overall shape that generallycorresponds to that of the knob insert. More specifically, in thisembodiment (FIG. 9A) shaft 1.9 is bisected by imaginary sagittal plane,SP into symmetric halves (i.e., two halves that are mirror images ofeach other about the sagittal plane). Referring now to FIG. 9B, andmoving along central longitudinal axis 1.1 in a direction toward flange1.6 from tang, anterior cantle region 6.1 and posterior cantle region7.1 gradually curve away from central longitudinal axis (i.e., thesurfaces are each concave surfaces in imaginary sagittal plane SP) withanterior cantle region 6.1 having a radius of curvature R^(CASP1) thatis less than the radius of curvature R^(CPSP1) of posterior cantleregion 7.1. For example, in one embodiment, the ratio of R^(PC) toR^(CASP1) will be at least 2:1. By way of further example, in oneembodiment the ratio of R^(CPSP1) to R^(CASP1) will be at least 3:1. Byway of further example, in one embodiment the ratio of R^(CPSP1) toR^(CASP1) will be at least 4:1. By way of further example, in oneembodiment the ratio of R^(CPSP1) to R^(CASP1) will be at least 5:1. Ingeneral, however, the ratio of R^(CPSP1) to R^(CASP1) will be less thanabout 20:1 and in some embodiments the ratio of R^(CPSP1) to R^(CASP1)will be less than about 15:1.

In some embodiments the ratio of R^(CPSP1) to R^(CASP1) will be in therange of about 3:1 to about 20:1. For example, in one embodiment theratio of R^(CPSP1) to R^(CASP1) will be in the range of about 4:1 toabout 17.5:1. By way of further in one embodiment the ratio of R^(CPSP1)to R^(CASP1) will be in the range of about 5:1 to about 15:1. By way offurther in one embodiment the ratio of R^(CPSP1) to R^(CASP1) will be inthe range of about 5:1 to about 10:1. As a result of the difference inthe radii of curvature (i.e., R^(CPSP1)>R^(CASP1)) the volume ofposterior cantle region exceeds the volume of anterior cantle region.

In one embodiment and referring now to FIG. 6A, the shaft is also isdivided into two parts by imaginary sagittal plane, SP, wherein thesagittal plane contains central longitudinal axis 1.1 and isperpendicular to coronal plane CP. In one such embodiment, the shaft isbisected by imaginary coronal plane CP into two cross-sections (see FIG.3) that have outer surfaces that are asymmetric relative to each otherabout coronal plane CP (i.e., the outer surfaces of the twocross-sections are not mirror images of each other about coronal planeCP). Additionally, and moving along central longitudinal axis 1.1 in adirection toward flange 1.6, the lateral sides of the shaft graduallycurve away from central longitudinal axis (i.e., the surfaces are eachconcave surfaces in imaginary coronal plane CP) with comparable radii ofcurvature R^(CCP3), R^(CCP4) (see FIG. 6A). For example, in oneembodiment the ratio of R^(CCP3) to R^(CCP4) (the ratio of therespective radii of curvature) is in the range of about 2:1 to about1:2. By way of further example, in one such embodiment the ratio ofR^(CCP3) to R^(CCP4) is in the range of about 1.75:1 to about 1:1.75. Byway of further example, in one such embodiment the ratio of R^(CCP3) toR^(CCP4) is in the range of about 1.5:1 to about 1:1.5. By way offurther example, in one such embodiment the ratio of R^(CCP3) toR^(CCP4) is in the range of about 1.25:1 to about 1:1.25. By way offurther example, in one such embodiment the ratio of R^(CCP3) toR^(CCP4) is in the range of about 1.1:1 to about 1:1.1.

Referring now to FIG. 9, the shaft, shown in profile, wherein a seriesof groves 9.1 (e.g., knob core slots) having similar length butdiffering depths along their length yet equal in width and having aconsistent baseline in parallel to the sagittal plane (SP) providingspace for the knob sheath structure material, when coupled, to interlockwith the inner knob shaft structure, when molded, providing a sheath,that when gripped, provides a stable, not-slip engagement between theshaft and the sheath. Injection molding is the preferred method ofcreating the knob insert 1 described herein. The knob insert iscomprised of two structures—a shaft 1.9 and a sheath 1.2. The twostructures, the shaft and sheath are sequentially manufactured such thatthe shaft is molded first to provide the main structure of the knobinsert and the sheath is coupled, covering the non-tang of the shaftthus providing the knob, which is grasped by the athlete.

Referring now to FIG. 9A, the bottom view of FIG. 9 demonstrates theconsistent baseline alignment of the groves in relation to the imaginarysagittal plane.

In one embodiment and referring now to FIG. 9B (see also FIGS. 19, 19Aand 19B) the knob insert is also divided into two parts by imaginarycoronal plane, CP, wherein the coronal plane contains centrallongitudinal axis 1.1 and is perpendicular to sagittal plane SP. In onesuch embodiment, the knob insert is bisected by imaginary coronal planeCP into two cross-sections (see FIGS. 19A, 19B) that have outer surfacesthat are asymmetric relative to each other about coronal plane CP (i.e.,the outer surfaces of the two cross-sections are not mirror images ofeach other about coronal plane CP). Additionally, and now referring toFIG. 6, and moving along central longitudinal axis 1.1 in the coronalplane, in a direction toward flange 1.6, anterior region 6.1, andposterior region 7.1 shown in FIG. 7 (also see FIGS. 19, 19A, 19B)gradually curve away from central longitudinal axis (i.e., the surfacesare each concave surfaces in imaginary coronal plane CP) with similarradii of curvature R^(CCP1), R^(CCP2), as illustrated in FIG. 6.

Referring now to FIG. 10, the shaft, shown in profile and the sheathshown in phantom, wherein a series of parallel channels 10.1 (e.g., knobcore channels), varying length but equal in width, having a consistentbaseline depth in parallel to the sagittal plane (SP) providing spacefor the sheath structure material, when coupled, to interlock with theshaft, providing surfaces for the sheath material to interlock with theshaft, providing a sheath, that when gripped that is a stable, not-slipengagement for the two portions.

Referring now to FIG. 10A, the bottom view of FIG. 10 shows theconsistent baseline alignment of the channels in relation to theimaginary sagittal plane.

Referring now to FIGS. 11A through 12B, demonstrating other possibleorientations of, ridges, channels and structures extendingperpendicularly from the imaginary sagittal plane, as previouslydescribed, providing space for the sheath, when coupled with the shaft,provide structural engagement between the sheath and the shaft,providing a sheath, that when gripped that is a stable, not-slipengagement for the two portions. For example, FIGS. 11A and 11Bdemonstrate channels 11.1, and FIGS. 12A-12B demonstrate pillar-likestructures 12.1.

Referring now to FIG. 13, the knob shaft 1.9 in profile, demonstratingthe longitudinal length of the chamfered corner 1.12 of the tang can beof varying lengths, cross sectional shapes and perimeters withoutdeparting from the principles of the disclosure.

Referring now to FIG. 14, the knob insert and hand of FIG. 3, with tang1.3 fully inserted into the hollow end of a hockey stick 14.1. The tangis fully inserted into the stick and oriented such that the posteriorcantle region, 7.1 of the knob insert is aligned on the same side of thehockey stick as the blade 14.2. This ensures proper alignment of thewhole of the knob insert with the whole of the hockey stick with theblade 14.2. Presented another way, when the knob insert 1 is properlyand fully inserted into the hollow end of a hockey stick 14.1 and upongrasping the knob, the athlete's hand is grasping the knob such that thehand and stick blade are in proper alignment with the structures of thehockey stick 14.3 (e.g., in alignment with the blade and posteriorcantle). Also demonstrated herein, the central longitudinal axis of theknob insert 1.1 is coincident with longitudinal axis 14.5 of the hockeystick as indicated 3.1. Additionally, the tang, when fully inserted intothe hollow end of a hockey stick, will have minimal effect in changingthe designated flex of the hockey stick to which it is inserted, as themajority of the length of the tang is housed within the handle portionof the stick and is thus partially gripped by the hand where the flex ofthe stick does not specifically occur.

Referring now to FIG. 15, a conventional hockey stick 15.1 grasped by ahand wherein the hypothenar is fully engaged with the longitudinalsurface of a conventional hockey stick. The outer longitudinal surfacesof the stick being parallel to the central axis of the hockey providethe grasping hand with only perpendicular leverage, 15.2, as indicatedby the arrows passing perpendicularly through the stick, where thehypothenar of the hand exerts perpendicular force on the stick,generally using the ring finger and portion of the middle finger as thefulcrum point, F, to provide leverage on the hockey stick, approximatelywhere the ring finger would grasp the hockey stick in opposition to thehypothenar.

FIG. 16, by way of comparison to FIG. 15, illustrates the embodiment ofthe knob insert of FIG. 1, fully inserted into a hollow hockey stick,14.1, grasped by a hand (e.g., to form the full hockey stick with knob16.1). As illustrated, the hypothenar is fully engaged with theposterior cantle structures 7.1, and the pinky finger, ring finger andportion of the middle finger of the gripping hand firmly grasp theanterior cantle region, 6.1 (see FIG. 3) generally around the centrallongitudinal axis of the knob (and by connection the centrallongitudinal axis of the hockey stick as shown in FIG. 14) in oppositionto the hypothenar, with the ring finger generally providing leverage atthe point of the fulcrum, F, in effect, enabling the hand to generateimproved leverage through the extended, greater cantle surface areaprovided by the knob. The increased leverage on the knob insert andtherefor the greater hockey stick results in increased grip strength,control and leverage of the stick by the athlete.

Referring now to FIG. 17, in one embodiment of knob insert (identifiedas element 17.4) is of a scale that approximates the hand 17.3 (shown inphantom) of a hockey player. For example, knob insert has a length(element 17.2 in FIG. 17) that is in the range 60-125% of the averagelength of the average adult male human hand (element 17.1 in FIG. 17).By way of further example, knob insert has a length that is in the range70-110% of the average length of the average adult male human hand. Byway of further example, knob insert has a length that is in the range75-100% of the average length of the average adult male human hand.Assuming the average length of the average adult male human hand is inthe range of 7-7.5 inches, the knob insert will typically have anoverall length in the range 4.5-9 inches in some embodiments, 5-8 inchesin some embodiments, 5.5-7.5 inches in some embodiment, 6-7 inches insome embodiments and 6.25-6.75 inches in some embodiments. Additionally,a complete knob insert which generally fits, longitudinally within thelength of the athletes hand from base of the palm to middle fingertip,17.2, thus allowing for a proportionally balanced knob insert, whichwhen fully inserted into a hollow hockey stick (see FIG. 14), providessupport to the base gripping structures of the hand (hypothenar, pinkyfinger, ring finger and a portion of the middle finger, see FIG. 3)while at the same time providing the forward gripping structures of thehand (portion of the middle finger, first finger and thumb) to directlygrasp the handle portion of the hockey stick shaft from the step of theknob insert, butted up to the hollow end of the hockey stick, forward inthe direction of the blade.

In another embodiment of the present disclosure, and referring now toFIG. 18A, the knob insert includes an internal cavity, indicated 18.1,having a generally perpendicular central alignment with the centrallongitudinal axis, 1.1, of the knob insert. The internal cavity is sizedto closely fit and house an electronic sensor, accelerometer or otherelectronic device, indicated 18.2, to monitor an athlete's movement ofthe hockey stick. When the knob insert is fully inserted into the hollowend of a hockey stick (see FIG. 14) the embedded sensor, housed in sidethe cavity 18.1, in accordance with the sensors guidelines, and alignedon the shared central longitudinal axis of the knob insert and hockeystick provide proper alignment of the sensor and the hockey stick suchthat the sensor may accurately track and monitor, in accordance with therequirements of the sensor the motion of the stick while the player isusing the stick in practice or in games. In this embodiment, theelectronic device is demonstrated being aligned with the same centralaxis 1.1 of the knob insert. The electronic device may be held securelyin place inside the internal cavity by friction, close fit, adhesive,mechanical fastener, and the like. Optionally, cavity 18.1 can becovered or enclosed by a cover device, cap, sticker or compressionfitting as generally indicated 18.3. Exemplary electronic devicesinclude Zepp brand electronic motion sensors sold by Zepp Labs (LosGatos, Calif.) and those described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,725,452 (which isincorporated herein in its entirety) and BLAST Motion sensors based inCarlsbad, Calif.

Referring now to FIG. 18B, the internal cavity, 18.1, is shown closelyfitting a sensor, 18.2, aligned on the central longitudinal axis 1.1 ofthe knob insert.

Referring now to FIG. 18C, demonstrating an alternate shape of thesensor 18.4, that can be accommodated by an alternate internal cavityshape as indicated 18.5. Internal cavity 18.1, 18.2 and 18.4 can be ofvarying lengths, cross sectional shapes, depths and perimeters withoutdeparting from the principles of the disclosure.

In further embodiments, numbered 1-149 below, aspects of the presentdisclosure include:

Embodiment 1

A knob insert for insertion into the hollow shaft of a hockey stick, theknob insert comprising a tang for insertion into the hollow shaft of thehockey stick, a knob adapted to be grasped by the hand of an athletewhen the tang is inserted into the hollow shaft of the hockey stick, anda step between the tang and the knob adapted to abut an end surface ofthe hollow shaft of the hockey stick when the tang is inserted therein,the tang, step and knob being aligned along a central longitudinal axisextending from a tang end to a knob end of the knob insert, wherein

-   -   the knob comprises an anterior cantle region and a corresponding        posterior cantle region, the anterior and posterior cantle        regions being between the step and the knob end and on opposing        sides of an imaginary coronal plane containing the central        longitudinal axis and divided by an imaginary sagittal plane        that contains the central longitudinal axis and is orthogonal to        the imaginary coronal plane; the anterior and posterior cantle        regions each providing a curved support surface for the hand of        the athlete when the athlete is gripping the hockey stick, the        anterior cantle region and the posterior cantle region each        having a radius of curvature in the sagittal plane, the radius        of curvature of the anterior cantle region being less than the        radius of curvature of the posterior cantle region,    -   the tang and the knob comprise a shaft that extends from a        position proximate the tang end to a position proximate the knob        end of the knob insert,    -   the knob further comprises a sheath that is coupled to and        surrounds the shaft, and    -   the shaft and the sheath are discrete components having        different properties.

Embodiment 2

A knob insert adapted for insertion into the hollow shaft of a hockeystick, the knob insert comprising a central longitudinal axis, a tangfor insertion into the hollow shaft of the hockey stick, a knob adaptedto be grasped by the hand of an athlete when the tang is inserted intothe hollow shaft of the hockey stick, a step between the tang and theknob, a tang end, and a knob, the tang and knob ends being opposing endsof the knob insert and aligned the central longitudinal axis, the knobcomprising a flange proximate the knob end, an anterior cantle region,and a posterior cantle region, wherein

-   -   (i) the anterior and posterior cantle regions are between the        step and the flange,    -   (ii) the anterior and posterior cantle regions, in combination,        provide a curved support surface for the hand of the athlete,    -   (iii) each of the anterior and posterior cantle regions are        bisected into symmetrical halves by an imaginary sagittal plane        that contains the central longitudinal axis, and    -   (iv) the anterior and posterior cantle regions are on opposing        sides of and asymmetric relative to each other about an        imaginary coronal plane that contains the central longitudinal        axis and is orthogonal to the sagittal plane.

Embodiment 3

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the longitudinalaxis is substantially linear.

Embodiment 4

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein a ratio of theradius of curvature of the posterior cantle region to the radius ofcurvature of the anterior cantle region is at least 1:2, respectively.

Embodiment 5

The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein a ratio of the radius ofcurvature of the posterior cantle region to the radius of curvature ofthe anterior cantle region is at least 1:3, respectively.

Embodiment 6

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein a ratio of theradius of curvature of the posterior cantle region to the radius ofcurvature of the anterior cantle region is at least 1:5, respectively.

Embodiment 7

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein a ratio of theradius of curvature of the posterior cantle region to the radius ofcurvature of the anterior cantle region is less than 1:20.

Embodiment 8

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein a ratio of theradius of curvature of the posterior cantle region to the radius ofcurvature of the anterior cantle region is less than 1:15, respectively.

Embodiment 9

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein a ratio of theradius of curvature of the posterior cantle region to the radius ofcurvature of the anterior cantle region is less than 1:10, respectively.

Embodiment 10

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the knob has anouter diameter that varies as a function of position along the centrallongitudinal axis with the minimum outer diameter occurring at aposition along the longitudinal axis that is greater than 50% of thedistance between the knob end and the step, as measured from the step.

Embodiment 11

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the knob has anouter diameter that varies as a function of position along the centrallongitudinal axis with the minimum outer diameter occurring at aposition along the longitudinal axis that is greater than 55% of thedistance between the knob end and the step, as measured from the step.

Embodiment 12

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the knob has anouter diameter that varies as a function of position along the centrallongitudinal axis with the minimum outer diameter occurring at aposition along the longitudinal axis that is greater than 60% of thedistance between the knob end and the step, as measured from the step.

Embodiment 13

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the knob has anouter diameter that varies as a function of position along the centrallongitudinal axis with the minimum outer diameter occurring at aposition along the longitudinal axis that is greater than 65% of thedistance between the knob end and the step, as measured from the step.

Embodiment 14

The knob insert of any of embodiments 10 to 13 wherein the minimumdiameter of the knob is about 65% to 95% of the diameter of the knob atthe step.

Embodiment 15

The knob insert of any of embodiments 10 to 13 wherein the minimumdiameter of the knob is about 65% to 90% of the diameter of the knob atthe step.

Embodiment 16

The knob insert of any of embodiments 10 to 13 wherein the minimumdiameter of the knob is about 70% to 90% of the diameter of the knob atthe step.

Embodiment 17

The knob insert of any of embodiments 10 to 13 wherein the minimumdiameter of the knob is about 65% to 85% of the diameter of the knob atthe step.

Embodiment 18

The knob insert of any of embodiments 10 to 13 wherein the minimumdiameter of the knob is about 70% to 85% of the diameter of the knob atthe step.

Embodiment 19

The knob insert of any of embodiments 10 to 13 wherein the minimumdiameter of the knob is about 75% to 85% of the diameter of the knob atthe step.

Embodiment 20

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the imaginarysagittal plane bisects the knob into symmetrical halves.

Embodiment 21

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the knob insert hasa length, as measured from the tang end to the knob end and along thecentral longitudinal axis of 4.5 to 8 inches.

Embodiment 22

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the knob insert hasa length, as measured from the tang end to the knob end and along thecentral longitudinal axis of 4.5 to 7.5 inches.

Embodiment 23

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the knob insert hasa length, as measured from the tang end to the knob end and along thecentral longitudinal axis of 4.5 to 7 inches.

Embodiment 24

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the knob insert hasa length, as measured from the tang end to the knob end and along thecentral longitudinal axis of 4.5 to 6.5 inches.

Embodiment 25

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the knob insert hasa length, as measured from the tang end to the knob end and along thecentral longitudinal axis of 5 to 8 inches.

Embodiment 26

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the knob insert hasa length, as measured from the tang end to the knob end and along thecentral longitudinal axis of 5 to 7.5 inches.

Embodiment 27

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the knob insert hasa length, as measured from the tang end to the knob end and along thecentral longitudinal axis of 5 to 7 inches.

Embodiment 28

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the knob insert hasa length, as measured from the tang end to the knob end and along thecentral longitudinal axis of 5 to 6.5 inches.

Embodiment 29

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the knob insert hasa length, as measured from the tang end to the knob end and along thecentral longitudinal axis of 5.5 to 8 inches.

Embodiment 30

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the knob insert hasa length, as measured from the tang end to the knob end and along thecentral longitudinal axis of 5.5 to 7.5 inches.

Embodiment 31

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the knob insert hasa length, as measured from the tang end to the knob end and along thecentral longitudinal axis of 5.5 to 7 inches.

Embodiment 32

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the knob insert hasa length, as measured from the tang end to the knob end and along thecentral longitudinal axis of 5.5 to 6.5 inches.

Embodiment 33

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the knob insert hasa length, as measured from the tang end to the knob end and along thecentral longitudinal axis of 6 to 8 inches.

Embodiment 34

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the knob insert hasa length, as measured from the tang end to the knob end and along thecentral longitudinal axis of 6 to 7.5 inches.

Embodiment 35

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the knob insert hasa length, as measured from the tang end to the knob end and along thecentral longitudinal axis of 6 to 7 inches.

Embodiment 36

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the knob insert hasa length, as measured from the tang end to the knob end and along thecentral longitudinal axis of 6 to 6.5 inches.

Embodiment 37

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the sheath comprisesa polymer.

Embodiment 38

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the sheath comprisesan injection molded polymer.

Embodiment 39

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the sheath comprisesan injection molded thermoplastic polymer.

Embodiment 40

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the sheath comprisesa thermoplastic vulcanizate.

Embodiment 41

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the sheath comprisesa polymeric material having a durometer hardness of 75 Shore A, 5 sec,injection molded.

Embodiment 42

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the insert shaft andthe sheath comprise materials having a chemically distinct composition.

Embodiment 43

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the insert shaftcomprises a polymeric material.

Embodiment 44

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the insert shaftcomprises a thermoplastic polymeric material.

Embodiment 45

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the insert shaftcomprises a composite of a thermoplastic polymeric and a fiberreinforcing material.

Embodiment 46

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the insert shaftcomprises a composite of a thermoplastic polymer and a glass fiberreinforcing material.

Embodiment 47

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the insert shaft hasa flexural strength of at least 10,000 psi as determined in accordancewith ASTM D790.

Embodiment 48

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the insert shaft hasa flexural strength of at least 15,000 psi as determined in accordancewith ASTM D790.

Embodiment 49

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the insert shaft hasa flexural strength of at least 20,000 psi as determined in accordancewith ASTM D790.

Embodiment 50

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the insert shaft hasa flexural strength of at least 25,000 psi as determined in accordancewith ASTM D790.

Embodiment 51

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the insert shaft hasa flexural strength of at least 30,000 psi as determined in accordancewith ASTM D790.

Embodiment 52

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the insert shaft hasa flexural strength of at least 35,000 psi as determined in accordancewith ASTM D790.

Embodiment 53

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the insert shaft hasa flexural strength of at least 40,000 psi as determined in accordancewith ASTM D790.

Embodiment 54

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the knob insert hasa mass of 80 to 115 grams.

Embodiment 55

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the knob insert hasa mass of 40 to 75 grams.

Embodiment 56

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the knob insert hasa mass of 100 to 150 grams.

Embodiment 57

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the posterior cantleregion smoothly transitions about the central longitudinal axis to theanterior cantle region.

Embodiment 58

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the knob end has acircumference that is at least 110% of the circumference of the neck.

Embodiment 59

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the knob end has acircumference that is at least 150% of the circumference of the neck.

Embodiment 60

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the knob end has acircumference that is at least 200% of the circumference of the neck.

Embodiment 61

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the knob end has acircumference that is at least 300% of the circumference of the neck.

Embodiment 62

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the tang has alength measured along the central longitudinal axis of about 2 to about12 inches.

Embodiment 63

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the tang has an endthat is chamfered at an angle of about 30° to 60° from the longitudinalsides of the tang and toward the longitudinal central axis to allow foreasier initial guided insertion of the tang into the hollow end of thestick.

Embodiment 64

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the tang hasgrooves, which run parallel to the central longitudinal axis of thetang.

Embodiment 65

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the tang haschamfered corners which are parallel to the central longitudinal axis ofthe knob.

Embodiment 66

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the knob has alength, as measured along central longitudinal axis 1.1, that is about 5to about 95% of the length of the knob and the tang has a complementarylength, as measured along the central longitudinal axis, that is about95 to about 5% of the length of the knob.

Embodiment 67

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the knob has alength, as measured along central longitudinal axis that is about 15 toabout 85% of the length of the knob insert and the tang has acomplementary length, as measured along the central longitudinal axis,that is about 85 to about 15% of the length of the knob insert.

Embodiment 68

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the knob has alength, as measured along central longitudinal axis that is about 25 toabout 75% of the length of the knob insert and the tang has acomplementary length, as measured along the central longitudinal axis,that is about 75 to about 25% of the length of the knob insert.

Embodiment 69

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the knob has alength, as measured along central longitudinal axis that is about 35 toabout 65% of the length of the knob insert and the tang has acomplementary length, as measured along the central longitudinal axis,that is about 65 to about 35% of the length of the knob insert.

Embodiment 70

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the knob has alength, as measured along central longitudinal axis that is about 40 toabout 60% of the length of the knob insert and the tang has acomplementary length, as measured along the central longitudinal axis,that is about 60 to about 40% of the length of the knob insert.

Embodiment 71

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the knob comprises aneck between the flange and the tang.

Embodiment 72

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the neck has alength measured along the central longitudinal axis of at least about0.25 inches.

Embodiment 73

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the neck has alength measured along the central longitudinal axis in the range ofabout 0.25 to about 4 inches.

Embodiment 74

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the neck has alength measured along the central longitudinal axis in the range ofabout 1 to about 4 inches.

Embodiment 75

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the neck has alength measured along the central longitudinal axis in the range ofabout 1 to about 2 inches.

Embodiment 76

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the shaft comprisesa ceramic, metal, polymer, composite, wood or a composite or laminatethereof.

Embodiment 77

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the shaft comprisesa ceramic, metal, polymer, composite, or a composite or laminatethereof.

Embodiment 78

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the shaft has anoverall shape that generally corresponds to the overall shape of theknob.

Embodiment 79

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the shaft isbisected by the sagittal plane into symmetric halves.

Embodiment 80

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the shaft comprisesan anterior cantle region a posterior cantle region.

Embodiment 81

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the shaft comprisesan anterior cantle region and a posterior cantle region, each of whichgradually curves away from central longitudinal axis with shaft anteriorcantle region having a radius of curvature R^(CASP2) in the sagittalplane that is less than the radius of curvature R^(CPSP2) of shaftposterior cantle region in the sagittal plane.

Embodiment 82

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the shaft comprisesan anterior cantle region and a posterior cantle region, each of whichgradually curves away from central longitudinal axis with shaft anteriorcantle region having a radius of curvature R^(CASP2) in the sagittalplane that is less than the radius of curvature R^(CPSP2) of shaftposterior cantle region in the sagittal plane and the ratio of R^(PC) toR^(AC) is at least 2:1.

Embodiment 83

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the shaft comprisesan anterior cantle region and a posterior cantle region, each of whichgradually curves away from central longitudinal axis with shaft anteriorcantle region having a radius of curvature R^(CASP2) in the sagittalplane that is less than the radius of curvature R^(CPSP2) of shaftposterior cantle region in the sagittal plane and the ratio of R^(CPSP2)to R^(CASP2) is at least 3:1.

Embodiment 84

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the shaft comprisesan anterior cantle region and a posterior cantle region, each of whichgradually curves away from central longitudinal axis with shaft anteriorcantle region having a radius of curvature R^(CASP2) in the sagittalplane that is less than the radius of curvature R^(CPSP2) of shaftposterior cantle region in the sagittal plane and the ratio of R^(CPSP2)to R^(CASP2) is at least 4:1.

Embodiment 85

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the shaft comprisesan anterior cantle region and a posterior cantle region, each of whichgradually curves away from central longitudinal axis with shaft anteriorcantle region having a radius of curvature R^(CASP2) in the sagittalplane that is less than the radius of curvature R^(CPSP2) of shaftposterior cantle region in the sagittal plane and the ratio of R^(CPSP2)to R^(CASP2) is at least 5:1.

Embodiment 86

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the shaft comprisesan anterior cantle region and a posterior cantle region, each of whichgradually curves away from central longitudinal axis with shaft anteriorcantle region having a radius of curvature R^(CASP2) in the sagittalplane that is less than the radius of curvature R^(CPSP2) of shaftposterior cantle region in the sagittal plane and the ratio of R^(CPSP2)to R^(CASP2) is at least about 20:1.

Embodiment 87

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the shaft comprisesan anterior cantle region and a posterior cantle region, each of whichgradually curves away from central longitudinal axis with shaft anteriorcantle region having a radius of curvature R^(CASP2) in the sagittalplane that is less than the radius of curvature R^(CPSP2) of shaftposterior cantle region in the sagittal plane and the ratio of R^(CPSP2)to R^(CASP2) is in the range of about 4:1 to about 17.5:1.

Embodiment 88

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the shaft comprisesan anterior cantle region and a posterior cantle region, each of whichgradually curves away from central longitudinal axis with shaft anteriorcantle region having a radius of curvature R^(CASP2) in the sagittalplane that is less than the radius of curvature R^(CPSP2) of shaftposterior cantle region in the sagittal plane and the ratio of R^(CPSP2)to R^(CASP2) is in the range of about 5:1 to about 10:1.

Embodiment 89

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the shaft comprisesan anterior cantle region and a posterior cantle region, each of whichgradually curves away from central longitudinal axis with shaft anteriorcantle region having a radius of curvature R^(CC1) in the coronal planethat is of comparable magnitude to the radius of curvature R^(CC2) ofshaft posterior cantle region in the coronal plane.

Embodiment 90

A combination of a hockey stick and a knob insert, the knob insertcorresponding to the knob insert of any of the preceding embodiments andbeing inserted into a hollow end of the hockey stick.

Embodiment 91

A combination of a hockey stick and a knob insert, the knob insertcorresponding to the knob insert of any of the preceding embodiments,the knob insert being inserted into a hollow end of the hockey stickwherein the anterior cantle region of knob is on the same side of thehockey stick as the blade of the hockey stick.

Embodiment 92

The combination of any of the preceding embodiments wherein the knobcomprises a cavity at the knob end sized to accommodate a motion sensor.

Embodiment 93

The combination of any of the preceding embodiments wherein the knobcomprises a cavity at grip end of the knob sized to accommodate a motionsensor, and the combination further comprises an electronic motionsensor housed in the cavity.

Embodiment 94

The combination of any preceding embodiment wherein the sheath has anouter surface having a coefficient of friction that is at least 50% ofthe coefficient of friction of the outer surface of the hockey stickadjacent the knob insert.

Embodiment 95

The combination of any preceding embodiment wherein the sheath has anouter surface having a coefficient of friction that is at least 60% ofthe coefficient of friction of the outer surface of the hockey stickadjacent the knob insert.

Embodiment 96

The combination of any preceding embodiment wherein the sheath has anouter surface having a coefficient of friction that is at least 70% ofthe coefficient of friction of the outer surface of the hockey stickadjacent the knob insert.

Embodiment 97

The combination of any preceding embodiment wherein the sheath has anouter surface having a coefficient of friction that is at least 80% ofthe coefficient of friction of the outer surface of the hockey stickadjacent the knob insert.

Embodiment 98

The combination of any preceding embodiment wherein the sheath has anouter surface having a coefficient of friction that is at least 90% ofthe coefficient of friction of the outer surface of the hockey stickadjacent the knob insert.

Embodiment 99

The combination of any preceding embodiment wherein the sheath has anouter surface having a coefficient of friction that is at least 100% ofthe coefficient of friction of the outer surface of the hockey stickadjacent the knob insert.

Embodiment 100

The combination of any preceding embodiment wherein the sheath has anouter surface having a coefficient of friction that is at least 110% ofthe coefficient of friction of the outer surface of the hockey stickadjacent the knob insert.

Embodiment 101

The combination of any preceding embodiment wherein the sheath has anouter surface having a coefficient of friction that is at least 120% ofthe coefficient of friction of the outer surface of the hockey stickadjacent the knob insert.

Embodiment 102

A knob insert of any preceding embodiment inserted into a hollow end ofthe hockey stick wherein the anterior cantle region of knob insert, whenengaged with the hypothenar of the gripping hand provides increasedleverage on the hockey stick.

Embodiment 103

A knob insert of any preceding embodiment inserted into a hollow end ofthe hockey stick wherein the anterior cantle region of the knob insert,when engaged with the hypothenar of the gripping hand, increases thesurface area of contact between the hand and the hockey stick.

Embodiment 104

A knob insert of any preceding embodiment inserted into a hollow end ofthe hockey stick wherein the anterior cantle region of knob, whenengaged with the hypothenar of the gripping hand provides increasedsurface area between the knob insert and the hand thus distributingpressure from a smaller focused area to a larger less-focuseddistribution of pressure to the gripping hand.

Embodiment 105

A knob insert of any preceding embodiment inserted into a hollow end ofthe hockey stick wherein the knob sheath, when gripped by the handprovides improved contact with the palmer arches of the gripping handand the hockey stick resulting in improved grip, control and powertransfer from the hands to the stick.

Embodiment 106

A knob insert of any preceding embodiment inserted into a hollow end ofthe hockey stick wherein the tang having a longitudinal length roughlyhalf the length of the overall knob insert while keeping the pluralityof the knob insert and the handle of the hockey stick within the grip ofthe hand.

Embodiment 107

A knob insert of any preceding embodiment inserted into a hollow end ofthe hockey stick wherein the tang, when fully inserted into the hollowend of a hockey stick, will generally not impact the flex of the stick.

Embodiment 108

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the insert shaft ismade of a material having the mechanical properties of Tensile Strengthat yield, 73° of at least 18,000 psi using ASTM/ISO procedure D638.

Embodiment 109

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the insert shaft ismade of a material having the mechanical properties of Tensile Strengthat yield, 73° of at least 19,000 psi using ASTM/ISO procedure D638.

Embodiment 110

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the insert shaft ismade of a material having the mechanical properties of Tensile Strengthat yield, 73° of at least 21,000 psi using ASTM/ISO procedure D638.

Embodiment 111

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the insert shaft ismade of a material having the mechanical properties of Tensile Strengthat yield, 73° of at least 23,000 psi using ASTM/ISO procedure D638.

Embodiment 112

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the insert shaft ismade of a material having the mechanical properties of Tensile Strengthat yield, 73° of at least 26,000 psi using ASTM/ISO procedure D638.

Embodiment 113

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the insert shaft ismade of a material having the mechanical properties of Tensile Strengthat yield, 73° of at least 29,000 psi using ASTM/ISO procedure D638.

Embodiment 114

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the insert shaft ismade of a material having the mechanical properties of Tensile Strengthat yield, 73° of at least 31,000 psi using ASTM/ISO procedure D638.

Embodiment 115

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the insert shaft ismade of a material having the mechanical properties of Tensile Strengthat yield, 73° of at least 33,000 psi using ASTM/ISO procedure D638.

Embodiment 116

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the insert shaft ismade of a material having the mechanical properties of Tensile Strengthat yield, 73° of at least 37,000 psi using ASTM/ISO procedure D638.

Embodiment 117

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the insert shaft ismade of a material having the mechanical properties of Tensile Strengthat yield, 73° of at least 41,000 psi using ASTM/ISO procedure D638.

Embodiment 118

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the insert shaft ismade of a material having the mechanical properties of Tensile Strengthat yield, 73° of at least 45,000 psi using ASTM/ISO procedure D638.

Embodiment 119

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the insert shaft ismade of a material having the mechanical properties of Tensile Strengthat yield, 73° of at least 50,000 psi using ASTM/ISO procedure D638.

Embodiment 120

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the insert shaft ismade of a material having the mechanical properties of Tensile Strengthat yield, 73° of at least 70,000 psi using ASTM/ISO procedure D638.

Embodiment 121

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the sheath comprisesan anterior cantle region and a posterior cantle region.

Embodiment 122

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the sheath comprisesan anterior cantle region and a posterior cantle region, each of whichgradually curves away from central longitudinal axis with sheathanterior cantle region having a radius of curvature R^(CASP1) in thesagittal plane that is less than the radius of curvature R^(CPSP1) ofsheath posterior cantle region in the sagittal plane.

Embodiment 123

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the sheath comprisesan anterior cantle region and a posterior cantle region, each of whichgradually curves away from central longitudinal axis with sheathanterior cantle region having a radius of curvature R^(CASP1) in thesagittal plane that is less than the radius of curvature R^(CPSP1) ofsheath posterior cantle region in the sagittal plane and C^(PSP1) toR^(CASP1) the ratio of R is at least 2:1.

Embodiment 124

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the sheath comprisesan anterior cantle region and a posterior cantle region, each of whichgradually curves away from central longitudinal axis with sheathanterior cantle region having a radius of curvature R^(CASP1) in thesagittal plane that is less than the radius of curvature R^(CPSP1) ofsheath posterior cantle region in the sagittal plane and C^(PSP1) toR^(CASP1) the ratio of R is at least 3:1.

Embodiment 125

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the sheath comprisesan anterior cantle region and a posterior cantle region, each of whichgradually curves away from central longitudinal axis with sheathanterior cantle region having a radius of curvature R^(CASP1) in thesagittal plane that is less than the radius of curvature R^(CPSP1) ofsheath posterior cantle region in the sagittal plane and C^(PSP1) toR^(CASP1) the ratio of R is at least 4:1.

Embodiment 126

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the sheath comprisesan anterior cantle region and a posterior cantle region, each of whichgradually curves away from central longitudinal axis with sheathanterior cantle region having a radius of curvature R^(CASP1) in thesagittal plane that is less than the radius of curvature R^(CPSP1) ofsheath posterior cantle region in the sagittal plane and the ratio ofR^(CPSP1) to R^(CASP1) is at least 5:1.

Embodiment 127

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the sheath comprisesan anterior cantle region and a posterior cantle region, each of whichgradually curves away from central longitudinal axis with sheathanterior cantle region having a radius of curvature R^(CASP1) in thesagittal plane that is less than the radius of curvature R^(CPSP1) ofsheath posterior cantle region in the sagittal plane and the ratio ofR^(CPSP1) to R^(CASP1) is at least about 20:1.

Embodiment 128

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the sheath comprisesan anterior cantle region and a posterior cantle region, each of whichgradually curves away from central longitudinal axis with sheathanterior cantle region having a radius of curvature R^(CASP1) in thesagittal plane that is less than the radius of curvature R^(CPSP1) ofsheath posterior cantle region in the sagittal plane and C^(PSP1) toR^(CASP1) the ratio of R is in the range of about 4:1 to about 17.5:1.

Embodiment 129

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the sheath comprisesan anterior cantle region and a posterior cantle region, each of whichgradually curves away from central longitudinal axis with sheathanterior cantle region having a radius of curvature R^(CASP1) in thesagittal plane that is less than the radius of curvature R^(CPSP1) ofsheath posterior cantle region in the sagittal plane and C^(PSP1) toR^(CASP1) the ratio of R is in the range of about 5:1 to about 10:1.

Embodiment 130

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the sheath has aradius of curvature, in the coronal plane on either side of the sagittalplane.

Embodiment 131

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the sheath has aradius of curvature, in the coronal plane on either side of the sagittalplane which are asymmetrical.

Embodiment 132

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the sheath has aradius of curvature, in the coronal plane on either side of the sagittalplane which are comparable.

Embodiment 133

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the sheath has aradius of curvature, in the coronal plane on either side of the sagittalplane, which gradually curve away from the central longitudinal axis.

Embodiment 134

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the sheath has aradius of curvature in the left coronal plane, R^(CCP1) and a radius ofcurvature in the right coronal plane, R^(CCP2) on either side of thesagittal plane.

Embodiment 135

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the sheath has aradius of curvature in the left coronal plane, R^(CCP1) and a radius ofcurvature in the right coronal plane, R^(CCP2) on either side of thesagittal plane.

Embodiment 136

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the sheath has aradius of curvature in the left coronal plane, R^(CCP1) and a radius ofcurvature in the right coronal plane, R^(CCP2) on either side of thesagittal plane are comparable and have a ratio of about 2:1 to about1:2.

Embodiment 137

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the sheath has aradius of curvature in the left coronal plane, R^(CCP1) and a radius ofcurvature in the right coronal plane, R^(CCP2) on either side of thesagittal plane are comparable and have a ratio of about 1.75:1 to about1:1.75.

Embodiment 138

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the sheath has aradius of curvature in the left coronal plane, R^(CCP1) and a radius ofcurvature in the right coronal plane, R^(CCP2) on either side of thesagittal plane are comparable and have a ratio of about 1.5:1 to about1:1.5.

Embodiment 139

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the sheath has aradius of curvature in the left coronal plane, R^(CCP1) and a radius ofcurvature in the right coronal plane, R^(CCP2) on either side of thesagittal plane are comparable and have a ratio of about 1.1:1 to about1:1.1.

Embodiment 140

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the shaft has aradius of curvature, in the coronal plane on either side of the sagittalplane.

Embodiment 141

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the shaft has aradius of curvature, in the coronal plane on either side of the sagittalplane which are asymmetrical.

Embodiment 142

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the shaft has aradius of curvature, in the coronal plane on either side of the sagittalplane which are comparable.

Embodiment 143

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the shaft has aradius of curvature, in the coronal plane on either side of the sagittalplane, which gradually curve away from the central longitudinal axis.

Embodiment 144

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the shaft has aradius of curvature in the left coronal plane, R^(CCP3) and a radius ofcurvature in the right coronal plane, R^(CCP4) on either side of thesagittal plane.

Embodiment 145

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the shaft has aradius of curvature in the left coronal plane, R^(CCP3) and a radius ofcurvature in the right coronal plane, R^(CCP4) on either side of thesagittal plane.

Embodiment 146

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the shaft has aradius of curvature in the left coronal plane, R^(CCP3) and a radius ofcurvature in the right coronal plane, R^(CCP4) on either side of thesagittal plane are comparable and have a ratio of about 2:1 to about1:2.

Embodiment 147

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the shaft has aradius of curvature in the left coronal plane, R^(CCP3) and a radius ofcurvature in the right coronal plane, R^(CCP4) on either side of thesagittal plane are comparable and have a ratio of about 1.75:1 to about1:1.75.

Embodiment 148

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the shaft has aradius of curvature in the left coronal plane, R^(CCP3) and a radius ofcurvature in the right coronal plane, R^(CCP4) on either side of thesagittal plane are comparable and have a ratio of about 1.5:1 to about1:1.5.

Embodiment 149

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment wherein the shaft has aradius of curvature in the left coronal plane, R^(CCP3) and a radius ofcurvature in the right coronal plane, R^(CCP4) on either side of thesagittal plane are comparable and have a ratio of about 1.1:1 to about1:1.1.

Embodiment 150

The knob insert of any preceding embodiment, wherein the tang has across-sectional shape that is any of polygonal, oval, and round.

Embodiment 151

The knob insert of embodiment 150, wherein the tang has across-sectional shape that is a regular or irregular polygon.

Embodiment 152

The knob insert of embodiment 150, wherein the tang has across-sectional shape that is any of triangular, square, rectangular,pentagonal, hexagonal, octagonal, oval and round.

Having described the disclosure in detail, it will be apparent thatmodifications and variations are possible without departing the scope ofthe disclosure defined in the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A knob insert for insertion into the hollow shaftof a hockey stick, the knob insert comprising a tang for insertion intothe hollow shaft of the hockey stick, a knob adapted to be grasped bythe hand of an athlete when the tang is inserted into the hollow shaftof the hockey stick, and a step between the tang and the knob adapted toabut an end surface of the hollow shaft of the hockey stick when thetang is inserted therein, the tang, step and knob being aligned along acentral longitudinal axis extending from a tang end to a knob end of theknob insert, wherein the knob comprises an anterior cantle region and acorresponding posterior cantle region, the anterior and posterior cantleregions being between the step and the knob end and on opposing sides ofan imaginary coronal plane containing the central longitudinal axis anddivided by an imaginary sagittal plane that contains the centrallongitudinal axis and is orthogonal to the imaginary coronal plane; theanterior and posterior cantle regions each providing a curved supportsurface for the hand of the athlete when the athlete is gripping thehockey stick, the anterior cantle region and the posterior cantle regioneach having a radius of curvature in the sagittal plane, the radius ofcurvature of the anterior cantle region being less than the radius ofcurvature of the posterior cantle region, the tang and the knob comprisea shaft that extends from a position proximate the tang end to aposition proximate the knob end of the knob insert, the knob furthercomprises a sheath that is coupled to and surrounds the shaft, and theshaft and the sheath are discrete components having differentproperties.
 2. A knob insert adapted for insertion into the hollow shaftof a hockey stick, the knob insert comprising a central longitudinalaxis, a tang for insertion into the hollow shaft of the hockey stick, aknob adapted to be grasped by the hand of an athlete when the tang isinserted into the hollow shaft of the hockey stick, a step between thetang and the knob, a tang end, and a knob, the tang and knob ends beingopposing ends of the knob insert and aligned the central longitudinalaxis, the knob comprising a flange proximate the knob end, an anteriorcantle region, and a posterior cantle region, wherein (i) the anteriorand posterior cantle regions are between the step and the flange, (ii)the anterior and posterior cantle regions, in combination, provide acurved support surface for the hand of the athlete, (iii) each of theanterior and posterior cantle regions are bisected into symmetricalhalves by an imaginary sagittal plane that contains the centrallongitudinal axis, and (iv) the anterior and posterior cantle regionsare on opposing sides of and asymmetric relative to each other about animaginary coronal plane that contains the central longitudinal axis andis orthogonal to the sagittal plane.
 3. The knob insert of any precedingclaim wherein the longitudinal axis is substantially linear.
 4. The knobinsert of any preceding claims wherein a ratio of the radius ofcurvature of the posterior cantle region to the radius of curvature ofthe anterior cantle region is at least 1:2, respectively.
 5. The knobinsert of any preceding claims wherein a ratio of the radius ofcurvature of the posterior cantle region to the radius of curvature ofthe anterior cantle region is at least 1:3, respectively.
 6. The knobinsert of any preceding claims wherein a ratio of the radius ofcurvature of the posterior cantle region to the radius of curvature ofthe anterior cantle region is at least 1:5, respectively.
 7. The knobinsert of any preceding claims wherein a ratio of the radius ofcurvature of the posterior cantle region to the radius of curvature ofthe anterior cantle region is less than 1:20.
 8. The knob insert of anypreceding claims wherein a ratio of the radius of curvature of theposterior cantle region to the radius of curvature of the anteriorcantle region is less than 1:15, respectively.
 9. The knob insert of anypreceding claims wherein a ratio of the radius of curvature of theposterior cantle region to the radius of curvature of the anteriorcantle region is less than 1:10, respectively.
 10. The knob insert ofany preceding claims wherein the knob has an outer diameter that variesas a function of position along the central longitudinal axis with theminimum outer diameter occurring at a position along the longitudinalaxis that is greater than 50% of the distance between the knob end andthe step, as measured from the step.
 11. The knob insert of anypreceding claims wherein the knob has an outer diameter that varies as afunction of position along the central longitudinal axis with theminimum outer diameter occurring at a position along the longitudinalaxis that is greater than 55% of the distance between the knob end andthe step, as measured from the step.
 12. The knob insert of anypreceding claims wherein the knob has an outer diameter that varies as afunction of position along the central longitudinal axis with theminimum outer diameter occurring at a position along the longitudinalaxis that is greater than 60% of the distance between the knob end andthe step, as measured from the step.
 13. The knob insert of anypreceding claims wherein the knob has an outer diameter that varies as afunction of position along the central longitudinal axis with theminimum outer diameter occurring at a position along the longitudinalaxis that is greater than 65% of the distance between the knob end andthe step, as measured from the step.
 14. The knob insert of any ofclaims 10 to 13 wherein the minimum diameter of the knob is about 65% to95% of the diameter of the knob at the step.
 15. The knob insert of anyof claims 10 to 13 wherein the minimum diameter of the knob is about 65%to 90% of the diameter of the knob at the step.
 16. The knob insert ofany of claims 10 to 13 wherein the minimum diameter of the knob is about70% to 90% of the diameter of the knob at the step.
 17. The knob insertof any of claims 10 to 13 wherein the minimum diameter of the knob isabout 65% to 85% of the diameter of the knob at the step.
 18. The knobinsert of any of claims 10 to 13 wherein the minimum diameter of theknob is about 70% to 85% of the diameter of the knob at the step. 19.The knob insert of any of claims 10 to 13 wherein the minimum diameterof the knob is about 75% to 85% of the diameter of the knob at the step.20. The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein the imaginarysagittal plane bisects the knob into symmetrical halves.
 21. The knobinsert of any preceding claims wherein the knob insert has a length, asmeasured from the tang end to the knob end and along the centrallongitudinal axis of 4.5 to 8 inches.
 22. The knob insert of anypreceding claims wherein the knob insert has a length, as measured fromthe tang end to the knob end and along the central longitudinal axis of4.5 to 7.5 inches.
 23. The knob insert of any preceding claims whereinthe knob insert has a length, as measured from the tang end to the knobend and along the central longitudinal axis of 4.5 to 7 inches.
 24. Theknob insert of any preceding claims wherein the knob insert has alength, as measured from the tang end to the knob end and along thecentral longitudinal axis of 4.5 to 6.5 inches.
 25. The knob insert ofany preceding claims wherein the knob insert has a length, as measuredfrom the tang end to the knob end and along the central longitudinalaxis of 5 to 8 inches.
 26. The knob insert of any preceding claimswherein the knob insert has a length, as measured from the tang end tothe knob end and along the central longitudinal axis of 5 to 7.5 inches.27. The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein the knob insert hasa length, as measured from the tang end to the knob end and along thecentral longitudinal axis of 5 to 7 inches.
 28. The knob insert of anypreceding claims wherein the knob insert has a length, as measured fromthe tang end to the knob end and along the central longitudinal axis of5 to 6.5 inches.
 29. The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein theknob insert has a length, as measured from the tang end to the knob endand along the central longitudinal axis of 5.5 to 8 inches.
 30. The knobinsert of any preceding claims wherein the knob insert has a length, asmeasured from the tang end to the knob end and along the centrallongitudinal axis of 5.5 to 7.5 inches.
 31. The knob insert of anypreceding claims wherein the knob insert has a length, as measured fromthe tang end to the knob end and along the central longitudinal axis of5.5 to 7 inches.
 32. The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein theknob insert has a length, as measured from the tang end to the knob endand along the central longitudinal axis of 5.5 to 6.5 inches.
 33. Theknob insert of any preceding claims wherein the knob insert has alength, as measured from the tang end to the knob end and along thecentral longitudinal axis of 6 to 8 inches.
 34. The knob insert of anypreceding claims wherein the knob insert has a length, as measured fromthe tang end to the knob end and along the central longitudinal axis of6 to 7.5 inches.
 35. The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein theknob insert has a length, as measured from the tang end to the knob endand along the central longitudinal axis of 6 to 7 inches.
 36. The knobinsert of any preceding claims wherein the knob insert has a length, asmeasured from the tang end to the knob end and along the centrallongitudinal axis of 6 to 6.5 inches.
 37. The knob insert of anypreceding claims wherein the sheath comprises a polymer.
 38. The knobinsert of any preceding claims wherein the sheath comprises an injectionmolded polymer.
 39. The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein thesheath comprises an injection molded thermoplastic polymer.
 40. The knobinsert of any preceding claims wherein the sheath comprises athermoplastic vulcanizate.
 41. The knob insert of any preceding claimswherein the sheath comprises a polymeric material having a durometerhardness of 75 Shore A, 5 sec, injection molded.
 42. The knob insert ofany preceding claims wherein the insert shaft and the sheath comprisematerials having a chemically distinct composition.
 43. The knob insertof any preceding claims wherein the insert shaft comprises a polymericmaterial.
 44. The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein the insertshaft comprises a thermoplastic polymeric material.
 45. The knob insertof any preceding claims wherein the insert shaft comprises a compositeof a thermoplastic polymeric and a fiber reinforcing material.
 46. Theknob insert of any preceding claims wherein the insert shaft comprises acomposite of a thermoplastic polymer and a glass fiber reinforcingmaterial.
 47. The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein the insertshaft has a flexural strength of at least 10,000 psi as determined inaccordance with ASTM D790.
 48. The knob insert of any preceding claimswherein the insert shaft has a flexural strength of at least 15,000 psias determined in accordance with ASTM D790.
 49. The knob insert of anypreceding claims wherein the insert shaft has a flexural strength of atleast 20,000 psi as determined in accordance with ASTM D790.
 50. Theknob insert of any preceding claims wherein the insert shaft has aflexural strength of at least 25,000 psi as determined in accordancewith ASTM D790.
 51. The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein theinsert shaft has a flexural strength of at least 30,000 psi asdetermined in accordance with ASTM D790.
 52. The knob insert of anypreceding claims wherein the insert shaft has a flexural strength of atleast 35,000 psi as determined in accordance with ASTM D790.
 53. Theknob insert of any preceding claims wherein the insert shaft has aflexural strength of at least 40,000 psi as determined in accordancewith ASTM D790.
 54. The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein theknob insert has a mass of 80 to 115 grams.
 55. The knob insert of anypreceding claims wherein the knob insert has a mass of 40 to 75 grams.56. The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein the knob insert hasa mass of 100 to 150 grams.
 57. The knob insert of any preceding claimswherein the posterior cantle region smoothly transitions about thecentral longitudinal axis to the anterior cantle region.
 58. The knobinsert of any preceding claims wherein the knob end has a circumferencethat is at least 110% of the circumference of the neck.
 59. The knobinsert of any preceding claims wherein the knob end has a circumferencethat is at least 150% of the circumference of the neck.
 60. The knobinsert of any preceding claims wherein the knob end has a circumferencethat is at least 200% of the circumference of the neck.
 61. The knobinsert of any preceding claims wherein the knob end has a circumferencethat is at least 300% of the circumference of the neck.
 62. The knobinsert of any preceding claims wherein the tang has a length measuredalong the central longitudinal axis of about 2 to about 12 inches. 63.The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein the tang has an end thatis chamfered at an angle of about 30° to 60° from the longitudinal sidesof the tang and toward the longitudinal central axis to allow for easierinitial guided insertion of the tang into the hollow end of the stick.64. The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein the tang hasgrooves, which run parallel to the central longitudinal axis of thetang.
 65. The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein the tang haschamfered corners which are parallel to the central longitudinal axis ofthe knob.
 66. The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein the knobhas a length, as measured along central longitudinal axis 1.1, that isabout 5 to about 95% of the length of the knob and the tang has acomplementary length, as measured along the central longitudinal axis,that is about 95 to about 5% of the length of the knob.
 67. The knobinsert of any preceding claims wherein the knob has a length, asmeasured along central longitudinal axis that is about 15 to about 85%of the length of the knob insert and the tang has a complementarylength, as measured along the central longitudinal axis, that is about85 to about 15% of the length of the knob insert.
 68. The knob insert ofany preceding claims wherein the knob has a length, as measured alongcentral longitudinal axis that is about 25 to about 75% of the length ofthe knob insert and the tang has a complementary length, as measuredalong the central longitudinal axis, that is about 75 to about 25% ofthe length of the knob insert.
 69. The knob insert of any precedingclaims wherein the knob has a length, as measured along centrallongitudinal axis that is about 35 to about 65% of the length of theknob insert and the tang has a complementary length, as measured alongthe central longitudinal axis, that is about 65 to about 35% of thelength of the knob insert.
 70. The knob insert of any preceding claimswherein the knob has a length, as measured along central longitudinalaxis that is about 40 to about 60% of the length of the knob insert andthe tang has a complementary length, as measured along the centrallongitudinal axis, that is about 60 to about 40% of the length of theknob insert.
 71. The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein theknob comprises a neck between the flange and the tang.
 72. The knobinsert of any preceding claims wherein the neck has a length measuredalong the central longitudinal axis of at least about 0.25 inches. 73.The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein the neck has a lengthmeasured along the central longitudinal axis in the range of about 0.25to about 4 inches.
 74. The knob insert of any preceding claims whereinthe neck has a length measured along the central longitudinal axis inthe range of about 1 to about 4 inches.
 75. The knob insert of anypreceding claims wherein the neck has a length measured along thecentral longitudinal axis in the range of about 1 to about 2 inches. 76.The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein the shaft comprises aceramic, metal, polymer, composite, wood or a composite or laminatethereof.
 77. The knob insert of any preceding claim wherein the shaftcomprises a ceramic, metal, polymer, composite, or a composite orlaminate thereof.
 78. The knob insert of any preceding claim wherein theshaft has an overall shape that generally corresponds to the overallshape of the knob.
 79. The knob insert of any preceding claim whereinthe shaft is bisected by the sagittal plane into symmetric halves. 80.The knob insert of any preceding claim wherein the shaft comprises ananterior cantle region a posterior cantle region.
 81. The knob insert ofany preceding claim wherein the shaft comprises an anterior cantleregion and a posterior cantle region, each of which gradually curvesaway from central longitudinal axis with shaft anterior cantle regionhaving a radius of curvature R^(CASP2) in the sagittal plane that isless than the radius of curvature R^(CPSP2) of shaft posterior cantleregion in the sagittal plane.
 82. The knob insert of any preceding claimwherein the shaft comprises an anterior cantle region and a posteriorcantle region, each of which gradually curves away from centrallongitudinal axis with shaft anterior cantle region having a radius ofcurvature R^(CASP2) in the sagittal plane that is less than the radiusof curvature R^(CPSP2) of shaft posterior cantle region in the sagittalplane and the ratio of R^(Pc) to R^(Ac) is at least 2:1.
 83. The knobinsert of any preceding claim wherein the shaft comprises an anteriorcantle region and a posterior cantle region, each of which graduallycurves away from central longitudinal axis with shaft anterior cantleregion having a radius of curvature R^(CASP2) in the sagittal plane thatis less than the radius of curvature R^(CPSP2) of shaft posterior cantleregion in the sagittal plane and the ratio of R^(CPSP2) to R^(CASP2) isat least 3:1.
 84. The knob insert of any preceding claim wherein theshaft comprises an anterior cantle region and a posterior cantle region,each of which gradually curves away from central longitudinal axis withshaft anterior cantle region having a radius of curvature R^(CASP2) inthe sagittal plane that is less than the radius of curvature R^(CPSP2)of shaft posterior cantle region in the sagittal plane and the ratio ofR^(CPSP2) to R^(CASP2) is at least 4:1.
 85. The knob insert of anypreceding claim wherein the shaft comprises an anterior cantle regionand a posterior cantle region, each of which gradually curves away fromcentral longitudinal axis with shaft anterior cantle region having aradius of curvature R^(CASP2) in the sagittal plane that is less thanthe radius of curvature R^(CPSP2) of shaft posterior cantle region inthe sagittal plane and the ratio of R^(CPSP2) to R^(CASP2) is at least5:1.
 86. The knob insert of any preceding claim wherein the shaftcomprises an anterior cantle region and a posterior cantle region, eachof which gradually curves away from central longitudinal axis with shaftanterior cantle region having a radius of curvature R^(CASP2) in thesagittal plane that is less than the radius of curvature R^(CPSP2) ofshaft posterior cantle region in the sagittal plane and the ratio ofR^(CPSP2) to R^(CASP2) is at least about 20:1.
 87. The knob insert ofany preceding claim wherein the shaft comprises an anterior cantleregion and a posterior cantle region, each of which gradually curvesaway from central longitudinal axis with shaft anterior cantle regionhaving a radius of curvature R^(CASP2) in the sagittal plane that isless than the radius of curvature R^(CPSP2) of shaft posterior cantleregion in the sagittal plane and the ratio of R^(CPSP2) to R^(CASP2) isin the range of about 4:1 to about 17.5:1.
 88. The knob insert of anypreceding claim wherein the shaft comprises an anterior cantle regionand a posterior cantle region, each of which gradually curves away fromcentral longitudinal axis with shaft anterior cantle region having aradius of curvature R^(CASP2) in the sagittal plane that is less thanthe radius of curvature R^(CPSP2) of shaft posterior cantle region inthe sagittal plane and the ratio of R^(CPSP2) to R^(CASP2) is in therange of about 5:1 to about 10:1.
 89. The knob insert of any precedingclaim wherein the shaft comprises an anterior cantle region and aposterior cantle region, each of which gradually curves away fromcentral longitudinal axis with shaft anterior cantle region having aradius of curvature R^(CC1) in the coronal plane that is of comparablemagnitude to the radius of curvature R^(CC2) of shaft posterior cantleregion in the coronal plane.
 90. A combination of a hockey stick and aknob insert, the knob insert corresponding to the knob insert of any ofthe preceding claims and being inserted into a hollow end of the hockeystick.
 91. A combination of a hockey stick and a knob insert, the knobinsert corresponding to the knob insert of any of the preceding claims,the knob insert being inserted into a hollow end of the hockey stickwherein the anterior cantle region of knob is on the same side of thehockey stick as the blade of the hockey stick.
 92. The combination ofany of the preceding claims wherein the knob comprises a cavity at theknob end sized to accommodate a motion sensor.
 93. The combination ofany of the preceding claims wherein the knob comprises a cavity at gripend of the knob sized to accommodate a motion sensor, and thecombination further comprises an electronic motion sensor housed in thecavity.
 94. The combination of any preceding claim wherein the sheathhas an outer surface having a coefficient of friction that is at least50% of the coefficient of friction of the outer surface of the hockeystick adjacent the knob insert.
 95. The combination of any precedingclaim wherein the sheath has an outer surface having a coefficient offriction that is at least 60% of the coefficient of friction of theouter surface of the hockey stick adjacent the knob insert.
 96. Thecombination of any preceding claim wherein the sheath has an outersurface having a coefficient of friction that is at least 70% of thecoefficient of friction of the outer surface of the hockey stickadjacent the knob insert.
 97. The combination of any preceding claimwherein the sheath has an outer surface having a coefficient of frictionthat is at least 80% of the coefficient of friction of the outer surfaceof the hockey stick adjacent the knob insert.
 98. The combination of anypreceding claim wherein the sheath has an outer surface having acoefficient of friction that is at least 90% of the coefficient offriction of the outer surface of the hockey stick adjacent the knobinsert.
 99. The combination of any preceding claim wherein the sheathhas an outer surface having a coefficient of friction that is at least100% of the coefficient of friction of the outer surface of the hockeystick adjacent the knob insert.
 100. The combination of any precedingclaim wherein the sheath has an outer surface having a coefficient offriction that is at least 110% of the coefficient of friction of theouter surface of the hockey stick adjacent the knob insert.
 101. Thecombination of any preceding claim wherein the sheath has an outersurface having a coefficient of friction that is at least 120% of thecoefficient of friction of the outer surface of the hockey stickadjacent the knob insert.
 102. A knob insert of any preceding claiminserted into a hollow end of the hockey stick wherein the anteriorcantle region of knob insert, when engaged with the hypothenar of thegripping hand provides increased leverage on the hockey stick.
 103. Aknob insert of any preceding claim inserted into a hollow end of thehockey stick wherein the anterior cantle region of the knob insert, whenengaged with the hypothenar of the gripping hand, increases the surfacearea of contact between the hand and the hockey stick.
 104. A knobinsert of any preceding claim inserted into a hollow end of the hockeystick wherein the anterior cantle region of knob, when engaged with thehypothenar of the gripping hand provides increased surface area betweenthe knob insert and the hand thus distributing pressure from a smallerfocused area to a larger less-focused distribution of pressure to thegripping hand.
 105. A knob insert of any preceding claim inserted into ahollow end of the hockey stick wherein the knob sheath, when gripped bythe hand provides improved contact with the palmer arches of thegripping hand and the hockey stick resulting in improved grip, controland power transfer from the hands to the stick.
 106. A knob insert ofany preceding claim inserted into a hollow end of the hockey stickwherein the tang having a longitudinal length roughly half the length ofthe overall knob insert while keeping the plurality of the knob insertand the handle of the hockey stick within the grip of the hand.
 107. Aknob insert of any preceding claim inserted into a hollow end of thehockey stick wherein the tang, when fully inserted into the hollow endof a hockey stick, will generally not impact the flex of the stick. 108.The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein the insert shaft is madeof a material having the mechanical properties of Tensile Strength atyield, 73° of at least 18,000 psi using ASTM/ISO procedure D638. 109.The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein the insert shaft is madeof a material having the mechanical properties of Tensile Strength atyield, 73° of at least 19,000 psi using ASTM/ISO procedure D638. 110.The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein the insert shaft is madeof a material having the mechanical properties of Tensile Strength atyield, 73° of at least 21,000 psi using ASTM/ISO procedure D638. 111.The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein the insert shaft is madeof a material having the mechanical properties of Tensile Strength atyield, 73° of at least 23,000 psi using ASTM/ISO procedure D638. 112.The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein the insert shaft is madeof a material having the mechanical properties of Tensile Strength atyield, 73° of at least 26,000 psi using ASTM/ISO procedure D638. 113.The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein the insert shaft is madeof a material having the mechanical properties of Tensile Strength atyield, 73° of at least 29,000 psi using ASTM/ISO procedure D638. 114.The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein the insert shaft is madeof a material having the mechanical properties of Tensile Strength atyield, 73° of at least 31,000 psi using ASTM/ISO procedure D638. 115.The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein the insert shaft is madeof a material having the mechanical properties of Tensile Strength atyield, 73° of at least 33,000 psi using ASTM/ISO procedure D638. 116.The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein the insert shaft is madeof a material having the mechanical properties of Tensile Strength atyield, 73° of at least 37,000 psi using ASTM/ISO procedure D638. 117.The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein the insert shaft is madeof a material having the mechanical properties of Tensile Strength atyield, 73° of at least 41,000 psi using ASTM/ISO procedure D638. 118.The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein the insert shaft is madeof a material having the mechanical properties of Tensile Strength atyield, 73° of at least 45,000 psi using ASTM/ISO procedure D638. 119.The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein the insert shaft is madeof a material having the mechanical properties of Tensile Strength atyield, 73° of at least 50,000 psi using ASTM/ISO procedure D638. 120.The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein the insert shaft is madeof a material having the mechanical properties of Tensile Strength atyield, 73° of at least 70,000 psi using ASTM/ISO procedure D638. 121.The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein the sheath comprises ananterior cantle region and a posterior cantle region.
 122. The knobinsert of any preceding claims wherein the sheath comprises an anteriorcantle region and a posterior cantle region, each of which graduallycurves away from central longitudinal axis with sheath anterior cantleregion having a radius of curvature R^(CASP1) in the sagittal plane thatis less than the radius of curvature R^(CPSP1) of sheath posteriorcantle region in the sagittal plane.
 123. The knob insert of anypreceding claims wherein the sheath comprises an anterior cantle regionand a posterior cantle region, each of which gradually curves away fromcentral longitudinal axis with sheath anterior cantle region having aradius of curvature R^(CASP1) in the sagittal plane that is less thanthe radius of curvature R^(CPSP1) of sheath posterior cantle region inthe sagittal plane and the ratio of R^(CPSP1) to R^(CASP1) is at least2:1.
 124. The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein the sheathcomprises an anterior cantle region and a posterior cantle region, eachof which gradually curves away from central longitudinal axis withsheath anterior cantle region having a radius of curvature R^(CASP1) inthe sagittal plane that is less than the radius of curvature R^(CPSP1)of sheath posterior cantle region in the sagittal plane and the ratio ofR^(CPSP1) to R^(CASP1) is at least 3:1.
 125. The knob insert of anypreceding claims wherein the sheath comprises an anterior cantle regionand a posterior cantle region, each of which gradually curves away fromcentral longitudinal axis with sheath anterior cantle region having aradius of curvature R^(CASP1) in the sagittal plane that is less thanthe radius of curvature R^(CPSP1) of sheath posterior cantle region inthe sagittal plane and the ratio of R^(CPSP1) to R^(CASP1) is at least4:1.
 126. The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein the sheathcomprises an anterior cantle region and a posterior cantle region, eachof which gradually curves away from central longitudinal axis withsheath anterior cantle region having a radius of curvature R^(CASP1) inthe sagittal plane that is less than the radius of curvature R^(CPSP1)of sheath posterior cantle region in the sagittal plane and the ratio ofR^(CPSP1) to R^(CASP1) is at least 5:1.
 127. The knob insert of anypreceding claims wherein the sheath comprises an anterior cantle regionand a posterior cantle region, each of which gradually curves away fromcentral longitudinal axis with sheath anterior cantle region having aradius of curvature R^(CASP1) in the sagittal plane that is less thanthe radius of curvature R^(CPSP1) of sheath posterior cantle region inthe sagittal plane and the ratio of R^(CPSP1) to R^(CASP1) is at leastabout 20:1.
 128. The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein thesheath comprises an anterior cantle region and a posterior cantleregion, each of which gradually curves away from central longitudinalaxis with sheath anterior cantle region having a radius of curvatureR^(CASP1) in the sagittal plane that is less than the radius ofcurvature R^(CPSP1) of sheath posterior cantle region in the sagittalplane and the ratio of R^(CPSP1) to R^(CASP1) is in the range of about4:1 to about 17.5:1.
 129. The knob insert of any preceding claimswherein the sheath comprises an anterior cantle region and a posteriorcantle region, each of which gradually curves away from centrallongitudinal axis with sheath anterior cantle region having a radius ofcurvature R^(CASP1) in the sagittal plane that is less than the radiusof curvature R^(CPSP1) of sheath posterior cantle region in the sagittalplane and the ratio of R^(CPSP1) to R^(CASP1) is in the range of about5:1 to about 10:1.
 130. The knob insert of any preceding claims whereinthe sheath has a radius of curvature, in the coronal plane on eitherside of the sagittal plane.
 131. The knob insert of any preceding claimswherein the sheath has a radius of curvature, in the coronal plane oneither side of the sagittal plane which are asymmetrical.
 132. The knobinsert of any preceding claims wherein the sheath has a radius ofcurvature, in the coronal plane on either side of the sagittal planewhich are comparable.
 133. The knob insert of any preceding claimswherein the sheath has a radius of curvature, in the coronal plane oneither side of the sagittal plane, which gradually curve away from thecentral longitudinal axis.
 134. The knob insert of any preceding claimswherein the sheath has a radius of curvature in the left coronal plane,R^(CCP1) and a radius of curvature in the right coronal plane, R^(CCP2)on either side of the sagittal plane.
 135. The knob insert of anypreceding claims wherein the sheath has a radius of curvature in theleft coronal plane, R^(CCP1) and a radius of curvature in the rightcoronal plane, R^(CCP2) on either side of the sagittal plane.
 136. Theknob insert of any preceding claims wherein the sheath has a radius ofcurvature in the left coronal plane, R^(CCP1) and a radius of curvaturein the right coronal plane, R^(CCP2) on either side of the sagittalplane are comparable and have a ratio of about 2:1 to about 1:2. 137.The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein the sheath has a radiusof curvature in the left coronal plane, R^(CCP1) and a radius ofcurvature in the right coronal plane, R^(CCP2) on either side of thesagittal plane are comparable and have a ratio of about 1.75:1 to about1:1.75.
 138. The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein the sheathhas a radius of curvature in the left coronal plane, R^(CCP1) and aradius of curvature in the right coronal plane, R^(CCP2) on either sideof the sagittal plane are comparable and have a ratio of about 1.5:1 toabout 1:1.5.
 139. The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein thesheath has a radius of curvature in the left coronal plane, R^(CCP1) anda radius of curvature in the right coronal plane, R^(CCP2) on eitherside of the sagittal plane are comparable and have a ratio of about1.1:1 to about 1:1.1.
 140. The knob insert of any preceding claimswherein the shaft has a radius of curvature, in the coronal plane oneither side of the sagittal plane.
 141. The knob insert of any precedingclaims wherein the shaft has a radius of curvature, in the coronal planeon either side of the sagittal plane which are asymmetrical.
 142. Theknob insert of any preceding claims wherein the shaft has a radius ofcurvature, in the coronal plane on either side of the sagittal planewhich are comparable.
 143. The knob insert of any preceding claimswherein the shaft has a radius of curvature, in the coronal plane oneither side of the sagittal plane, which gradually curve away from thecentral longitudinal axis.
 144. The knob insert of any preceding claimswherein the shaft has a radius of curvature in the left coronal plane,R^(CCP3) and a radius of curvature in the right coronal plane, R^(CCP4)on either side of the sagittal plane.
 145. The knob insert of anypreceding claims wherein the shaft has a radius of curvature in the leftcoronal plane, R^(CCP3) and a radius of curvature in the right coronalplane, R^(CCP4) on either side of the sagittal plane.
 146. The knobinsert of any preceding claims wherein the shaft has a radius ofcurvature in the left coronal plane, R^(CCP3) and a radius of curvaturein the right coronal plane, R^(CCP4) on either side of the sagittalplane are comparable and have a ratio of about 2:1 to about 1:2. 147.The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein the shaft has a radiusof curvature in the left coronal plane, R^(CCP3) and a radius ofcurvature in the right coronal plane, R^(CCP4) on either side of thesagittal plane are comparable and have a ratio of about 1.75:1 to about1:1.75.
 148. The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein the shafthas a radius of curvature in the left coronal plane, R^(CCP3) and aradius of curvature in the right coronal plane, R^(CCP4) on either sideof the sagittal plane are comparable and have a ratio of about 1.5:1 toabout 1:1.5.
 149. The knob insert of any preceding claims wherein theshaft has a radius of curvature in the left coronal plane, R^(CCP3) anda radius of curvature in the right coronal plane, R^(CCP4) on eitherside of the sagittal plane are comparable and have a ratio of about1.1:1 to about 1:1.1.
 150. The knob insert of any preceding claims,wherein the tang has a cross-sectional shape that is any of polygonal,oval, and round.
 151. The knob insert of claim 150, wherein the tang hasa cross-sectional shape that is a regular or irregular polygon.
 152. Theknob insert of claim 150, wherein the tang has a cross-sectional shapethat is any of triangular, square, rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal,octagonal, oval and round.